Head Road, Carneys Creek closure delayed until further notice

Council has delayed the closure of Head Road, near Brett's Road, Carneys Creek due to the impact of the border closure between Queensland and New South Wales on alternative routes.

The proposed works on a very windy and steep section of Head Road near the boundary of Scenic Rim and the Southern Downs were due to begin on Monday 23 August to replace guard rails damaged by bush fires.

Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen said we cannot predict the lifting of border restrictions and due to the clash with the commencement of this four-month project, we decided to delay it and prioritise our residents and businesses already coping with the difficulty of COVID-19 restrictions.

"Head Road will remain open until further notice because residents and businesses travelling between the two local government areas are no longer able to use a shorter alternative route via White Swamp Road," Cr Christensen said.

"The southern detour via White Swamp Road crosses the state border and is unavailable for the foreseeable short-term, so we are investigating the timing of the proposed work on Head Road to minimise further impacts to the community.

"Feedback from the community using Head Road on a regular basis was that the alternative longer northern detour via the Cunningham Highway was not preferable at this time.

"The terrain of the section of the road, the work that needs to be conducted, the timeframe of the project and costs involved meant it wasn't a feasible option to keep it open during construction, so our engineers will reevaluate the timing and detour route availability.

"Since the bushfires, this section of Head Road has been reduced to one lane, using a traffic light system, and these road safety measures will stay in place to keep the road open. 

This guard replacement project is funded by the Queensland and Australian Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) to replace approximately 200 metres of guard rail damaged by bush fires on Head Road.

Geotechnical surveys indicated the foundation beneath the guard rail posts require stabilising, meaning the highly weathered rock slope will be excavated and rebuilt, and a section of the road cut out to allow the guard rail foundations to be suitably rebuilt. The upgrades will also include improved drainage and hazard signage.

For more information from Council directly phone 07 5540 5111 or email mail@scenicrim.qld.gov.au  and quote ‘Head Road Guard Rail Replacement’. road condition information visit www.qldtraffic.qld.gov.au