Central Coast Council has officially opened the $9.4 million Ironcliffe Road upgrade in Penguin, completing a major 8.6km project that improves safety, reliability and access for residents, local industry, emergency services and visitors travelling to the Dial Range recreation area.
The works included major safety improvements along the corridor, bridge widening, road widening, drainage and culvert upgrades, new guardrail, sealing and line marking, as well as upgrades to the Dial Range car park.
Mayor, Cheryl Fuller said the project was an important investment in the community’s long-term safety and connectivity.
“This is a significant project for Penguin and the wider Central Coast community,” Mayor Fuller said.
“We’re proud to celebrate the completion of these works and to acknowledge everyone who helped bring this important upgrade to life,” she said.
Federal Member for Braddon, Anne Urquhart said the project showed the value of targeted infrastructure investment in regional communities.
“Projects like this deliver real benefits for regional communities by improving day‑to‑day safety, strengthening local connectivity and supporting local economic activity,” Ms Urquhart said.
“The Albanese Labor Government is proud to support the Ironcliffe Road upgrade through the Remote Roads Upgrade Pilot Program, ensuring safer journeys and better access for the local community and all road users.”
Director Infrastructure Services, Nick Browne said the project had delivered practical and lasting improvements across the full corridor.
“This project has significantly improved the safety of Ironcliffe Road including the realignment of the ‘Horseshoe Bend’, a well-known dangerous corner, widening of the McBrides Creek Bridge from one lane to two, and substantial road, drainage and roadside safety upgrades.”
The Ironcliffe Road upgrade was funded through the Australian Government’s Remote Roads Upgrade Pilot Program, with $7.52 million from the Australian Government and $1.88 million from Central Coast Council. Upgrades to the Dial Range car park were also supported by Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service.
