Access along Loftus Road at Ryans Cut has been reinstated, restoring a vital connection and helping residents return to everyday life following recent flood impacts.
Kempsey Shire Council has officially reopened Loftus Road at Ryans Cut on Friday 6 June, only two weeks after major flood damage washed out and damaged sections of roadway and impacted essential water infrastructure at Ryans Cut.
The damage occurred when floodwaters moved through the Belmore floodplain and overtopped channel banks at Ryans Cut, scouring the southern side and damaging the northern side of the bridge.
Kinne Ring, Mayor of Kempsey Shire Council, said reinstating access is an important step in the community's recovery.
"This project represents more than just the reopening of a road," said Mayor Ring.
"For many, this road reconnects residents to a sense of normality, providing familiar and efficient access to family, friends and local businesses. It stands as a tangible sign that we're moving forward together."
The priority when works began on 29 May was to stabilise the scour and relay the water main, restoring raw water supply from the Maguires Borefield to the raw water storage at the Crescent Head Water Treatment Plant.
Following construction of a rock protection wall, backfilled with sand and road base, the new pavement was laid on Thursday 5 May and shaped to allow the road to be reopened the next day.
Council staff worked across multiple days including the weekend to complete the high priority repairs, as quickly and safely as possible.
Dylan Reeves, Manager Infrastructure Delivery, praised the coordinated effort by staff.
"From urgent water main repairs to complex road reconstruction, our crews delivered under pressure and with precision," said Mr Reeves.
"More than 3,600 tonnes of material went into reinstating this route with every step focused on long-term strength and safety."
Council thanks the local community for their patience and acknowledges the dedication of staff and contractors involved.
