Local business Ostojic Group has secured a $26 million contract to deliver the final stage of the Litchfield Park Road upgrade that will ensure a year-round access to Litchfield National Park in the Northern Territory.
Works will include the construction of a new bridge over the Lower Finniss River and completing the sealing and upgrade of the last 12-kilometre section of Litchfield Park Road to complete the loop road.
This project is anticipated to support up to 80 local jobs.
The Litchfield Park Road upgrade is vital as it will ensure that the road remains open during the wet season when it is normally closed to traffic for long periods.
“Our priority is creating jobs for Territorians. This project is supporting 80 local jobs and once complete it will support further tourism opportunities as well as the cattle industry.
“Completing this final stage will improve road safety and flood immunity in the wet season and ensure critical access is provided all year round - boosting tourism, pastoral and agricultural industries,” Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics Eva Lawler said.
The State Government has been working with Traditional Owner groups in order to secure opportunities for them in the delivery of the project and to provide jobs for local Aboriginal people who have a strong connection to the region.
Over the years, Litchfield Park Road has been progressively sealed and upgraded to improve flood immunity, road safety and access for remote communities and towns in the surrounding areas of Litchfield National Park.
To date, the State Government has invested approximately $39 million towards the entire project and the Australian Government has made available $5.7 million as part of the Asset Recycling Initiative.
“Litchfield National Park is a key driver of tourism and jobs for the Top End and Batchelor region and the upgrades improve safety and ensure year-round access which is great for local businesses and visitors,” Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture Lauren Moss said.
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Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom; Infrastructure Magazine; Mirage News