Barrington Tops Forest Road has been reopened today, following major structural damage sustained during severe wet weather last year.

The road is the only access route from the east coast to the Barrington Tops State forests and National Parks. It is also used as an alternative access route between Gloucester and Scone.

The reopening follows a substantial repair project over the last 18 months, and is a boost to local communities, tourism and economies, said Forestry Corporation Stewardship Manager, Kathy Lyons.

“As the main link between Gloucester and Scone, we are very pleased to have completed these works and welcome people back to the beautiful State forests of the Barrington Tops,” Ms Lyons said.

“The project was a major engineering feat and saw over 12,500 tonnes of material, or 2,100 truckloads, removed and replaced to make the road structurally sound again.

“I’d like to thank the community for their patience and understanding while we completed this project to make the passageway safe and ready for reopening.

“Thanks also to the team of staff, contractors and engineers who made this extraordinary task possible. Their perseverance throughout challenges of seasonal and wet weather has made this reopening possible.”

Visitors are invited back to visit the State Forests of the Barrington Tops, which in recent years have seen major upgrades to Cobark lookout and the beautiful Manning River campground.

Be aware these are cool, high altitude forests, so don’t forget to pack some warm gear.

The NSW Government is supporting this work through a $60 million investment to repair critical road infrastructure including flood-damaged roads, bridges and culverts in State forests.

Media contact: Rod Campbell