Kyogle Council has delivered motorists an early Christmas gift with the reopening of Lions Road and the completion of two new bridges.

Lions Road had been closed since mid-June to allow for the construction of the new Lamonds Bridge.

The upgraded two-lane concrete bridge, built by local contractor Ozwide Bridge Rail and Civil, stands 1.5 metres higher than the old one-lane wooden structure.

The $2 million project, funded under Round 1 of the State Government’s Fixing Country Bridges program, has improved road alignment and increased flood resilience.

Paddys Flat Bridge has also been replaced with a raised, full-concrete structure that is one meter higher and two meters longer than its predecessor.

The $2 million project was completed in just over four months with funding from Round 2 of the Fixing Country Bridges program and a co-contribution from Council.

Kyogle Council Mayor Danielle Mulholland said, “The opening of the two bridges and Lions Road is a major win for motorists and the community.”

“The new bridges are safer and more flood resilient and will ultimately lower Council’s annual maintenance spend, meaning that money can be directed to other projects.

“Council has replaced 96 bridges in the last three years, more than any other jurisdiction in Australia, meaning future bridge maintenance costs will be significantly reduced.  

“We are grateful for the State Government’s support, and local member, Janelle Saffin’s expert advocacy to secure funding for 83 bridges in one hit, a wonderful outcome that has delivered for the people of Kyogle.” 

Cr Mulholland thanked the NSW and Federal Governments for funding its once-in-a-lifetime Bridge Renewal Program and Council staff for their hard work and commitment over the past three years.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said, “This is a fantastic example of the State Government’s Fixing Country Bridges program in action, delivering safer, more resilient infrastructure for regional communities.

“The collaboration with Kyogle Council ensures these critical upgrades support local industries and provide long-term benefits by providing vital connectivity between regional hubs for work and recreation. 

“We are especially proud to support the work to help sustain the vital economic drivers of the region, such as the timber, dairy, and livestock industries.

“We congratulate council on their work, which has also already benefitted the community and the tourism sector.”

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said, “The Lions Road is a wonderfully scenic route between NSW and Queensland and one of the tourism magnets in our region.

“These works make the road safer and more accessible for our communities and tourists. And replacing timber bridges with durable concrete structures is a key step toward reducing costs and improving sustainability. 

“I want to thank Kyogle Council for their exemplary work in fostering local partnerships and sourcing local materials, which has created positive economic growth in the area and better outcomes for residents.”