Forestry Corp has been told it can only use public roads during its planned Towamba logging operation on the proviso it pay for the roads’ improvement and maintenance.
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Bega Valley Shire Council discussed a proposal from Forestry Corporation of NSW where its upcoming operation in the Towamba Valley involved the use of Towamba Rd and Burragate Rd.
Council said the local communities had expressed strong opposition to Forestry’s planned use of the public roads even if there was not overt opposition to the logging operation itself. It was expected the logging operation would see 18 heavy vehicle movements a day for a period of 3-4 years.
It was recommended an alternative route involve Pericoe Rd south to Imlay Rd, which “significantly reduces the use of the public road network and any conflicts with general traffic.
However, for log trucks to use this route would require the upgrade of two council-owned bridges with estimates as to cost in the order of $550,000.
Councillors voted with staff recommendations to advocate that Forestry not use Towamba and Burragate Rd and instead send their log trucks along Pericoe Rd. It was also resolved that all structural improvements necessary, including bridges, on Pericoe Rd be completed at Forestry Corp’s expense and to council’s satisfaction.
The motion passed unanimously with councils all in agreement that “a corporation that contributes nothing to the shire’s rate base can’t expect ratepayers to foot the bill”.
- Check the map below for the alternative route suggested. The red arrows indicate where Forestry had proposed to direct their trucks through Towamba and Burragate.