Challenging stormwater repairs at Burragorang Road near Quarry Road progress

Wollondilly Council is currently working on repairs to the large stormwater culvert that crosses Burragorang Road near Quarry Road, The Oaks which was completely washed out during the major storm that damaged infrastructure right across the Shire in February. Due to safety concerns, traffic has been restricted to one lane during this work, following substantial damage to the stormwater drainage pipe and significant undermining of the road pavement. Mayor Matthew Deeth said, “The crew is working hard in challenging conditions to have the road reopened and the temporary traffic lights removed in mid to late May.” “Despite all the great efforts of our staff on site, work has been difficult and slower than we would like. Significant time has had to be spent removing the water from the area, while COVID-19 measures and a constrained site has limited the number of people who can work on the project.” “We trust that motorists will understand that our staff are working hard in a challenging time on a difficult project, and that they are treated respectfully during this time,” he said. Council began working on a formal design for the new headwalls in early February and works commenced in mid March to construct machine access, clear the storm debris and to remove water. This work was impacted by continued rainfall and also constant water flow through the job. Due to the site constraints and significant loading resulting from the deep embankment, a cast in situ structure was used with significant steel reinforcement. Council expects to pour the headwall on one side of the road next week and will then need to let that side cure to ensure sufficient strength before loading it. During this time, works can commence on the opposite side which is less challenging, followed by backfilling and the subsequent reopening of the road to two lanes.