Construction at the Isabella and Primrose Street intersection in Wingham has encountered unexpected ground conditions that are likely to extend the project timeline.
During excavation, potential contamination was identified within the work zone. While this type of finding can occur on older urban sites, especially those with a long history of mixed commercial use, it does require careful management to ensure the safety of workers, the community and the environment.
On discovering the potential contamination MidCoast Council advised the Environmental Protection Authority and is following their advice to further investigate.
Specialist testing is now underway to determine the extent of the material and the appropriate method for its removal and disposal. These investigations are expected to take several days, and depending on the results, additional remediation work may be required. This means some delays and intermittent disruptions to the construction schedule are likely.
At the same time, crews are continuing to locate and confirm underground services in the area which may be impacted by additional excavations. As is common with older infrastructure corridors, records for utilities such as telecommunications, electricity and water can be incomplete, which may slow progress while assets are safely identified.
Council will provide further updates as more information becomes available and revised timeframes are confirmed. The project team is working to minimise impacts wherever possible while ensuring the site is managed responsibly.
The reconstruction of the roundabout project includes relocating water pipes, upgrading drainage and rebuilding the road, kerbs and footpath.
U-turn bays are in operation for vehicle access during construction and driveway access to businesses in the immediate area will remain open for the duration of the project.
For ongoing updates, visit Council's Roads Hub: https://haveyoursay.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/midcoast-roads-hub
