The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government has saved the ecologically-significant patch of lowland rainforest, known as Grandpa’s Scrub, from destruction following design changes to the Coffs Harbour Bypass.
Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said every effort went into investigating design options with the contractor and this has ultimately resulted in the rainforest being saved.
“This is great news for the environment and community of Coffs Harbour and all supporters of Grandpa’s Scrub,” Mr Singh said.
“The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is getting on with the job of building what matters to keep our state moving forward while also maintaining environmental and cultural protections.
“Under the original plans, much of the rainforest would have been damaged and, while there are biodiversity offset measures in place, today’s solution avoids impacts to Grandpa’s Scrub completely and is something I’m very proud to have advocated for.
“This is a big win and the solution developed is sensible, practical and achievable and preserves the rainforest for the community for many generations to come.
“The refined design will include moving the alignment north, bringing the carriageways closer together and moving the Mackays Road underpass north, away from the forest, thereby adjusting the footprint of the motorway to avoid the remnant rainforest.”
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the Coffs Harbour Bypass is the biggest infrastructure project in the city’s history and will transform the daily lives of residents and commuters.
“It is not uncommon for designs to change during project development and I’m thrilled that we can save Grandpa’s Scrub and still deliver improved connectivity, road transport efficiency and safety for all road users,” Mr Farraway said.
“The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government will always stand up for the environment and the realignment means we will save 100 per cent of Grandpa’s Scrub, won’t delay construction and won’t impact any further properties.
“Coffs Harbour and the thousands of motorists who travel through the city each day will get a new bypass and will still be able to enjoy the unique environment that is Grandpa’s Scrub.”
The NSW and Australian governments are funding the 14 kilometre Coffs Harbour Bypass project and the cost of the realignment will be covered in the project budget.
More information is available at: www.pacifichighway.nsw.gov.au/coffsharbourbypass
