Toowoomba Bypass eastbound lane to reopen after months of delays

A time has been set for the reopening of one lane of traffic for eastbound vehicles on the Toowoomba Bypass, more than four months after it was closed for repairs following a landslip.

After months of delays, one lane of the eastbound traffic on the Toowoomba Bypass is set to reopen at 2pm on Friday, more than four months after the $1.6bn thoroughfare was closed for repairs.

In October last year, large sections of concrete on two roadside cuttings collapsed, with the highway’s builder, Nexus, blaming excessive rain in the previous 12 months.

While westbound traffic resumed within a few weeks, Nexus was forced to draw up extensive plans to redesign and reconstruct one section of cutting on the bypass’ northern flank.

New aerial images showcase the damage sustained to the cutting of the Toowoomba Bypass, which has been closed by the Department of Transport and Main Roads for repairs.

This work is not expected to be complete until April 2024.

Meanwhile, Nexus has installed a wall of shipping containers to hem in any debris that falls during the repairs, to make the road safe for motorists.

Nexus CEO James Thewlis said works had progressed well and they were pleased to be opening the one eastbound lane ahead of schedule.

“With the initial stabilisation works complete, we are now able to confidently reopen an eastbound lane for motorists,” he said.

“Works will continue on the cutting repair but this closure and stabilisation work will allow us to reconstruct the cutting while maintaining traffic flows on the bypass.

Large sections of concrete on two roadside cuttings collapsed on the Toowoomba Bypass following 12 months of above-average rain.

“We thank the community and motorists for their patience during this time while these essential works were carried out.”

A 40km/h speed limit will be in place during the repairs.

“One lane will remain closed for the duration of the reconstruction works but this is unlikely to impact on travel times,” Mr Thewlis said.

“Safety is always at the top of our priority list and we ask motorists to be aware of the works and follow the signage as directed for their safety and the safety of others.”

The head of the CFMEU has slammed Nexus Group and the Department of Transport and Main Road over the delays and damage.

CFMEU assistant secretary Jade Ingham alleged corners were cut during the design and construction reducing both the quality build and workers’ safety.

Originally published as Toowoomba Bypass eastbound lane to reopen after months of delays