Orange Street, Abermain

  • Project typeRoad rehabilitation
  • Project scheduleWorks are scheduled to commence 8 January 2024 and be completed by the end of October.

Background

Orange Street, Abermain is the main link road to and from the Hunter Expressway through Frame Drive and Gingers Lane. The continuous traffic increase has lead to pavement deterioration over time and triggered the high priority for upgrade and rehabilitation. These works were therefore included in Council's Operational Plan 2023-24 under the Regional Road Renewal Program (RRR).

The existing road is a two-way sealed road, generally with unformed/unsealed shoulders and earth dish drains on each side, except for some kerb and gutter along the western side from the Cessnock Road intersection to the Melbourne Street intersection. Council proposes to widen and upgrade the road along with implementing an effective drainage system.

Location

Orange Street, Abermain is oriented in an approximately north-south direction and is located between Cessnock Road and the intersection with Lismore Street, where the road merges with Frame Drive, and is approximately 720m in length as shown below.

Orange Street-Abermain.png

Scope of Works

  • Widening of existing road and shoulders
  • Pavement reconstruction/rehabilitation
  • Upgrading drainage system
  • New footpath
  • Guardrail installation
  • Street furniture
  • Signs and line marking 

Traffic Management

To ensure smooth traffic flow and safety, traffic guidance schemes will be implemented throughout the project. Road closures, detours, and diversions will be in place, and it is crucial for residents to adhere to posted speed limits and follow the guidance of traffic controllers and signs.

  • Road Closures and Detours: 
    Various road closures and detours will be in effect. Residents are kindly requested to plan their routes accordingly and allow for additional travel time.

  • Heavy Vehicle Traffic:
    Heavy vehicle traffic will be diverted as per detour signage (Variable Message Signs - VMS boards). Pay close attention to these signs for alternative routes.

  • Driveway Access on Orange Street:
    During construction, there may be disruptions to driveway access on Orange Street. Our on-site staff will communicate in advance with affected residents to minimize inconveniences.

  • Closure of Orange Street:
    Orange Street will be closed to all traffic except for residents. Our on-site staff will be in contact with affected residents to provide necessary information and coordination.

January Update:  

Due to the anticipated increase in traffic volumes and associated risks on residential streets within Abermain; Frame Drive, Abermain will be closed at Lilly Place from Thursday 25 January 2024 for the duration of the project. Road closures and detours will be in place, please adhere to speed limits and follow the directions of traffic controllers and signage. Residents of Lilly Place & Baileys Lane will be diverted as per detour signage (VMS boards).

We understand that these changes may cause inconvenience, and we appreciate your patience and cooperation during this period. The construction team is committed to minimising disruptions and ensuring the safety of both residents and workers.

Rationale for Hard Road Barrier Locations

Hard barriers serve as a last resort necessary to ensure the safety of local residents and workers on road construction sites. The decision to place these barriers is guided by careful consideration of various factors. In the case of this project:

  1. Minimising Traffic Flow Through Abermain: The need to minimise traffic flow through Abermain arises from the importance of reducing risks associated with vehicles attempting to turn right out of Abermain into Cessnock Road. This measure also prioritises the safety of local residents exiting their properties.
  2. Adequate turning circle: Lilly Place on Frame Drive was selected as the site for a hard barrier due to its suitability for large vehicles to turn around safely.
  3. Ensuring the Safety of Road Works: The safety of the road construction works is of paramount importance. The hard barriers have been strategically placed to create a secure working environment for construction crews, minimising the risk of accidents and ensuring that the project progresses safely.

Emergency Procedures

Cessnock City Council has well-established systems and procedures to respond to an emergency requiring the relocation of hard road barriers, including maintaining direct communication with emergency services agencies, such as Police, Fire & Rescue, Rural Fire Service (RFS), and the State Emergency Service (SES). This enables us to swiftly move hard barriers, ensuring safe access for residents during emergencies.

To view the detailed traffic management plan, please see the link below

If you have any concerns or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact our dedicated Customer Relations team at Cessnock City Council on 4993 4100. 

This number is also available for after-hours assistance. When calling after-hours, you will be directed to our Call Centre, which will promptly redirect your call to the appropriate Council on-call staff.

Orange Street, Abermain - Traffic Management Plan(PDF, 1MB)

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