Geotechnical investigations have confirmed that a major landslip that occurred around 31 March on Toose Road, almost 10km west of Bellbrook has rendered the road impassable to any traffic.
The landslip has impacted a 90 metre section of the roadway with specialist engineers determining the slope continues to move, as it is part of an older larger landslip in the same extremely steep area, around 55 meters above the Macleay River.
Kempsey Shire Council Director Operations and Planning, Robert Fish, said residents should not attempt to cross the unstable area, even on foot.
“The landslip area is extremely dangerous and accessing the road would put residents at a significant risk of serious injury or death.'” said Mr Fish.
Upon investigation conducted by specialists experienced in slope stability works, it became apparent that the slope is highly unstable, dangerous and at risk of catastrophic failure.
“Council staff and support agencies from the Emergency Operations Centre have been in contact with affected landowners, including those residents who are isolated due to the slip.”
“We are working closely with private landowners and Council engineers to determine a shorter-term temporary access route for residents over the mountains.”
The NSW SES is on standby to deliver supplies to affected residents via air drops, with residents advised to call 132 500 to request assistance and delivery.
Council is in contact with Resilience NSW and support agencies to ensure isolated residents can access flood relief support and financial assistance as relevant.
Council will be pursuing funding support under natural disaster provisions for the works required to carry out both short and longer term restoration. An alternative crossing and bridge over the Macleay River is being considered should Toose Road be too dangerous and unviable to restore. Long term options will require further consideration, with initial estimates to repair Toose Road in excess of $15 million. Given the scale of work required for the longer-term options, completing these works will take some time.
