Gap works start

WORK on stabilising the embankment at Cunningham’s Gap near Gap Creek Bridge started this week.
According to a Transport and Main Roads spokesperson, the Cunningham Highway has had to be shut down to traffic intermittently each day to bring down large boulders and debris.
“The rocks that have already been bought down from the rock face this week have been of significant size,” the spokesperson said.
“If these rocks had fallen while the highway was open, they could have caused significant damage to the road and, worse still, to passing vehicles and their occupants.
“We estimate about 800 tonnes of material will be removed, including large rocks. One of the rocks is 10 metres by seven metres by four metres. ”
Most of the work needs to be done by hand as machines cannot access the site. Specialist geotechnical technicians are using air bags to push the large rocks free.
The debris and loose material is left from the wet weather associated with cyclone Oswald in January this year.
This project aims to remove any material that may have been destabilised ahead of the wet season.
“This is a complex task and one that needs to be done under close supervision and lane closures to ensure the safety of workers and motorists,” the spokesperson said.
“We understand the importance of the Cunningham Highway and that’s why we’re doing this work as quickly and as safely as possible.
“We thank motorists for their patience during these closures as the crews work to stabilise the embankment and make it more secure.”
Motorists are encouraged to call 13 19 40 or visit 131940.qld.gov.au for up to date information on any road closures.
The reconstruction works are part of a program of works TMR is delivering under the National Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA).
Under these arrangements, the Australian Government provides 75 per cent of the funding, with 25 per cent from the Queensland Government.