A major Ipswich road that has become a trouble spot for drivers is set to have work recommence following Ipswich City Council taking back ownership of the project three weeks ago.
Redbank Plains Road frequently is complained about from residents and drivers who use the stretch of road throughout the day for their commute.
Council advised principal contractor Allroads on March 1, that it would be taking ownership of the Redbank Plains Road project after a pause in on-site activity.
Three days later, on March 4, Allroads went into administration with stage three, from Keidges Road to Kruger Parade, having been delayed from last August.
Mayor Teresa Harding said that having taken over the project the Council could deliver the upgrade with further minimal delay.
“A number of councils in the south-east have been impacted by construction contractor Allroads going into administration,” she said.
“For Ipswich, Allroads was delivering the upgrade of Redbank Plains Road however we are fortunate to have managed to take control of this project quickly with minimal delays to construction.
“Council has now engaged a local contractor, NARIC Civil, to recommence works so residents will soon see construction underway on Redbank Plains Road.
“Ipswich is growing at such a rapid rate but unfortunately our major roads had been neglected for many years.
“Residents have no doubt seen a significant jump in big improvements now underway on our local road network.
“This includes the expansion of Springfield Parkway and Greenbank Arterial Road, the upgrade of Redbank Plains Road, and most recently, we started work to improve Ripley and Fischer Roads.”
Ipswich City Council Chief Executive Officer Sonia Cooper said the green light had been hit on the next stage of the road.
“Since early March, council crews have made the site safe and completed some water and service upgrades, “Ms Cooper said.
“The 2023-2024 council budget allocated $11.3 million to Stage 3 of Redbank Plains Road, and following the liquidation of Allroads, council is assessing its options.
“While this change has caused some unavoidable delays to delivery, council expects Stage 3 will be completed by late 2024.”
Council has now engaged contractor NARIC Civil, based in Dinmore, with work set to begin immediately after Easter.
