A vital transport corridor connecting the Northern Tablelands and Mid North Coast is one step closer to restoration, with Armidale Regional Council awarding the major contract for the $319 million reconstruction of the Kempsey-Armidale Road.
Bielby Holdings Pty Ltd has been appointed to deliver the extensive restoration works between Big Hill and Blackbird Flat – a stretch severely impacted by landslips and natural disasters since the 2019 bushfires and subsequent floods.
The project will restore 43 kilometres of Kempsey-Armidale Road alongside a five-kilometre section of Lower Creek Road, ensuring greater resilience and reliability for local residents, freight, agriculture, and tourism.
Jointly funded by the Federal and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the awarding of the contract marks the largest Essential Public Asset Restoration project ever undertaken in NSW.
“We look forward to working with Bielby to deliver this major project and restore a critical connection for our region,” said Armidale Regional Council Mayor, Sam Coupland.
“A fully restored Kempsey-Armidale Road will improve access for local communities, support agriculture and business, and open up a beautiful part of our region to greater tourism and economic opportunities.
“This is the largest infrastructure project being delivered by a local council, and its importance to our community and the regional economy cannot be overstated.
“Council appreciates the patience and ongoing engagement of residents and businesses throughout what has been a long and challenging recovery process,” he said.
NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said the awarding of the contract to deliver the largest ever road reconstruction project in NSW was welcome news.
“Having seen first-hand the impact of the destruction and deterioration of this vital road and the terrible flow-on effect for local people, farmers, freight operators and businesses, the Minns Labor Government worked collaboratively with Council and the Federal Government to ensure that the road could be reopened,” said Minister Aitchison.
Council has worked closely with the NSW Reconstruction Authority and Transport for NSW to progress the complex project.
“The NSW Reconstruction Authority will continue to work closely with Armidale Regional Council and the contractor to support delivery of this critical infrastructure and ensure the road is rebuilt to better withstand future natural hazards,” said NSW Reconstruction Authority Executive Director Reconstruction, Graham Kennett.
Minister for Recovery and the North Coast, Janelle Saffin said the awarding of the construction contract was a huge step forward for the region.
“As the largest road reconstruction project ever delivered in New South Wales following a disaster, this landmark $319 million investment reflects just how vital state and federal support is for restoring key regional transport links,” she said.
“Communities along the Northern Tablelands and Mid North Coast rely on the Kempsey-Armidale Road every day. Restoring this essential link is about bringing certainty back to the region – supporting local families, boosting businesses, and ensuring everyone has safe, reliable access to services and, most importantly, to each other.”
Site mobilisation and early works are scheduled to begin in the coming months, with major construction launching in 2027. Peak construction will create over 220 local jobs, with completion targeted for late 2029.
