Western Downs’ roads receive largest flood damage restoration package in Queensland at $156m

Roads throughout the Western Downs will receive the largest restoration works package in the state, following major flood damage from the past two years. See which roads will receive reconstructions here.

Flood sign on a road under water. Picture: istock

The Western Downs has experienced multiple, dramatic floods in the past 12 months, which has caused enormous damage to crucial roads and networks.

Western Downs Regional Council has announced the region will be receiving the largest flood damage restoration package in Queensland, with $156m of permanent restoration works to be completed by mid-2024.

Weather and emergency situations will impact the time frame.

Mayor Paul McVeigh said the region’s repair bill was the biggest that has been submitted.

“We have a mammoth job ahead of us to help bring the roads to good condition,” Mr McVeigh said.

“Our estimate of the repair bill for our network of roads is in excess of $170m, the largest repair bill that’s ever been submitted.”

A large amount of temporary emergency repairs were put in place since November 2021, however those areas will receive permanent reconstruction.

The first step in the repair process involved a comprehensive road assessment of the region to assess the extent of damages.

The roads highlighted in blue show the extent of 2021/22 flood damages. Picture: WDRC

WDRC claimed to have liaised with civil contractors to fast-track the first rounds of flood damage restoration works.

“It’s a big region and sometimes we don’t know always know where each pothole has formed, or the edge of a road that has washed away,” Mr McVeigh said.

“If you spot something, help us out and report it to council on the Snap, Send Solve app.”

More information on the flood damage restoration package can be accessed through the WDRC website.

Originally published as Western Downs’ roads receive largest flood damage restoration package in Queensland at $156m