The Namoi Joint Organisation has launched a region-wide transport study to investigate solutions for the freight industry in the New England and North West regions.
The Namoi Joint Organisation consists of eight member councils including Gunnedah, Gwydir, Liverpool Plains, Moree Plains, Narrabri, Tamworth, Uralla and Walcha. The Joint Organisation collaborates to increase the effectiveness and sustainability of Local Government in the region.
The study is focused on the movements of B-doubles and AB-triple road trains in and through the region. It will identify which routes they can safely travel on and whether these roads and bridges can support their use.
Project sponsor Lester Rodgers, Chair of the Namoi Joint Organisation Leadership Team, said the study will include a technical review of local roads and bridges as well as canvassing the views and opinions of local freight operators and industry.
“With a current focus by State government on fixing country roads, we’re taking the initiative to support regional business by identifying ways to improve the way freight moves in and around the New England and North West regions.
“As one of the country’s richest agricultural areas and busiest feeder routes for primary industry, we owe it to our local communities to find ways to develop a sustainable freight network now and into the future.
“An independent consultant, SMEC Australia, is leading the study and overseeing a survey of freight and industry capturing their collective feedback. These frequent users of our road network are best positioned to provide meaningful views, issues, and suggestions.
“This project is a critical one for the region and for local government. It will help us identify where to direct our investment in roads and assist us to gain grant funding for much needed improvements.”
A brief online survey will provide the transport industry, their representatives and the companies that use them with a unique opportunity to have their say. “The study is timely in light of the State Government’s call for expressions of interest for Fixing Country Roads in February, which provides funding to councils for their local roads and bridges, as well as providing industry feedback for intermodal freight initiatives and the proposed Inland Rail project.”
Contact for information about the survey: Kylie Kerr, Asset Manager, Moree Plains Shire Council on 02 6757 3284
Contact for information about the overall study: Angus Witherby, Director of Planning & Development, Moree Plains Shire Council on 02 6757 3250
