A key section of Bass Point Tourist Road in Shellharbour will soon undergo a major upgrade to improve safety, access and resilience to future weather events.
Construction will start in November, rebuilding the two-kilometre section of road from the main entrance gate to Bushrangers Bay car park with a sealed surface and upgraded drainage.
"These much-needed upgrades will improve safety, reduce maintenance and provide a more reliable experience for all who visit Bass Point," Shell Harbour City Mayor Chris Homer said.
Funded through the $200 million Infrastructure Betterment Fund, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), the works will help reduce long-term maintenance needs and improve reliability for locals and visitors.
"Projects like this ensure local infrastructure is built back better, stronger and more resilient to future disasters," Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said.
"By investing in the long-term future of roads like Bass Point Tourist Road, we're helping communities better withstand the impacts of natural disasters while preserving access to important cultural and environmental landmarks."
Bass Point Reserve contains one of the few littoral rainforests in the Illawarra and is recognised as one of the most important archaeological sites on the NSW coast, listed for both its Aboriginal and European heritage values.
Planning and approvals have ensured the works protect the Reserve's environmental and cultural significance, with the upgraded road remaining within its existing footprint.
"Bass Point Reserve is a special place, both environmentally and culturally, and these upgrades will make sure it can be safely enjoyed by the community for years to come," NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said.
"These upgrades will make it easier for people to visit and enjoy the Reserve while ensuring its unique environment and heritage values are protected for generations to come."
During construction, vehicle access to most of Bass Point Reserve will be closed, however Maloneys Bay and Red Sands car parks will remain open. Pedestrian access via the walking track from the gravel loader car park to Bushrangers Bay will also remain available.
To support summer visitation, full vehicle access will be restored during the six-week holiday period from 17 December to 27 January. Construction is expected to be completed by March 2026, weather permitting.
"The timing of works has been carefully planned to protect the Reserve's unique environment and ensure full access for the community during the peak summer holidays, Mayor Homer said.
