Council calls on government to repair worst roads in the region

LISMORE City Council is seeking $5 million in federal funding to upgrade some of the worst roads in the region.

The proposed works include widening and sealing sections of Dunoon Road, Tweed Street, and Alexandra Parade in North Lismore, with potential additions such as

new car parks, roundabouts, and shared paths.

Lismore mayor Steve Krieg said the council had begun assessments and preliminary scoping work, and urged residents to share their feedback to help strengthen the application.

“There is no sugar-coating this. These are among the worst two roads in our local government area, and the disaster funding we received after the 2022 flood doesn’t go far enough for the work that is needed,” he said.

“Dunoon Road connects the communities at The Channon, Dunoon and Modanville with Lismore. In 2023, there were 3038 average daily traffic movements – with 7.7 per cent of them heavy traffic.

“This will only increase when Richmond River High is opened, and the North Lismore Plateau adds hundreds of new housing lots to the area.”

Upgrades to Tweed Street would extend from the Terania Street intersection to the second roundabout, supporting the North Lismore Plateau development. The plans also include viaduct improvements and a shared path along Dunoon Road.

The end of Alexandra Parade near the cattle sale yards would also be sealed and upgraded.

Krieg said community support was vital.

“I know that the community just wants our roads fixed. So do I, and that’s why we are asking the community to tell the Government how bad these roads are,” he said.

The upgrades are eligible under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.

“Our rate base is simply not enough for council to pay for the additional work,” Krieg said.

“We will be completing some works around the showground ahead of the Primex Field Days in May, but simply fixing the potholes is no longer a sustainable option.”

Residents can provide feedback through the requests and problems section of the Lismore City Council website.