The Great Western Highway at Victoria Pass remains fully closed in both directions following the detection of a structural failure in the historic Mitchell's Causeway. The closure, in effect since March 9, has no confirmed reopening date after the initial three-month estimate was abandoned.
The highway carries approximately 11,000 to 12,000 vehicles daily, including about 1,800 heavy vehicles.
Timeline of Events
- December (Prior): Proactive monitoring began after cracks and bulging were identified in the bridge structure, indicating a landslip risk.
- Thursday, March 6: Transport for NSW (TfNSW) staff observed cracking in the road surface on the eastbound lanes near Little Hartley. Eastbound lanes were initially closed.
- Sunday, March 9: Westbound lanes were also closed after geotechnical crews confirmed movement in the road's substructure. A full closure was implemented for safety reasons.
- Current Status: Geotechnical studies have revealed significant deterioration of the fill beneath the road, along with voids and gaps within the causeway’s structure. The road remains unstable and unsafe for traffic.
Structural Assessment and Repair
Mitchell's Causeway is a heritage structure built by convicts in the 1830s. Specialists are assessing the structural failure, focusing on the bridge’s fill material. Geotechnical teams are drilling into the fill and installing instruments to monitor bore water pressure and ground movement.
The NSW government has stated the situation is an "incredibly serious" major geotechnical failure on a fragile and historic road section. Engineers are conducting further tests and using 3D imaging to understand the movements occurring in the road structure. The initial monitoring and damage assessment phase is anticipated to take at least two weeks.
Following the assessment, initial repairs were originally projected to take at least two additional months. However, as of late May, the NSW government has confirmed that the three-month estimate for reopening is no longer accurate. A new timetable will be established once a repair solution is identified.
To expedite a resolution, the NSW government convened a technical briefing on April 23, inviting experts from Australia and internationally. The procurement process for a repair solution will be fast-tracked. The NSW government is currently evaluating two design solutions, with a decision expected by late June.
Traffic Diversions
- Westbound: Traffic is being detoured via Lithgow to the Bells Line of Road and the Darling Causeway.
- Eastbound: Motorists are diverted at Lithgow via Chifley Road to the Bells Line of Road or the Darling Causeway.
The alternative route adds approximately 25 minutes to journeys under normal conditions, but travel times can extend up to two hours during peak periods.
Roadworks are also present on the diversion routes, contributing to congestion.
Alternate Long-Distance Routes
TfNSW has recommended that travelers to the Central West explore alternative routes such as the Golden Highway or the Hume Highway near Yass to manage traffic flow.
Road Upgrades on Detour Routes
The NSW government has announced a $50 million investment for upgrading three key detour roads:
- Darling Causeway (Links the highway with the Bells Line of Road)
- Chifley Road (Running from Lithgow to Bell)
- Main Street in Lithgow
The funding covers asphalt laying, road shoulder widening, and general improvements. Work has commenced on patching Chifley Road and adding asphalt to the Darling Causeway.
Impact on Local Communities and Businesses
Traffic and Congestion
- An estimated 11,000 cars are being diverted through Lithgow daily, causing significant congestion.
- Residents on Mort Street in Lithgow have reported increased noise levels starting early in the morning and difficulties accessing their driveways.
- The closure has forced hundreds of trucks onto the winding Bells Line of Road. A tow truck has been stationed at the base of the road to assist trucks that may lose traction.
- The diversion has led to increased wear on local roads in Lithgow and concerns about higher fuel consumption.
- Emergency services maintain accessibility to local hospitals and the impacted area via alternative routes.
- Ramsay Moody, president of the Hartley District Progress Association, reported that some school commutes have extended from 10 minutes to two hours.
Business Impact
- A survey by Business NSW, which included 300 Central West businesses, indicated that 98% of businesses reported being impacted. Over half experienced cost increases of up to 30%.
- Factors contributing to these increases include falling revenue, supply chain delays, elevated fuel prices, and a reduction in customers.
- Small to medium-sized businesses, manufacturers, construction, and agricultural industries are reported to be particularly vulnerable.
- Lithgow Mayor Cassandra Coleman reported significant financial strain on local businesses. One business reported a 70% reduction in takings.
Government Support Package
The NSW government has announced a $3.5 million financial support package for small businesses and councils.
- Small Business Grants: $10,000 grants for small businesses in Mount Victoria, Hartley, Little Hartley, and Hartley Vale that demonstrate at least a 40% downturn since the road closure.
- Council Support: $15,000 for councils to boost visitor economies and $5,000 community event grants.
- Eligible Councils: Cabonne, Forbes, Oberon, Dubbo, Blayney, Hawkesbury, Mid-Western, Orange, Blue Mountains, Lithgow, and Bathurst.
Small Business Minister Janelle Saffin described the package as a "buffer," not compensation or cash flow replacement. She stated the assessment process took longer than locals would have liked and is open to considering further assistance.
Business owner Sharon Tofler of the Lolly Bug in Little Hartley called the $10,000 grant "disappointing," noting it covers approximately one week's wages. She has reduced trading days and staff hours due to lost revenue.
Business NSW western regional director Vicki Seccombe said the support does not fully reflect the scale of impacts, calling for transport rebates and temporary payroll tax relief.
Premier Chris Minns stated the government cannot provide a whole-of-region package, citing limited funds.
Public Transport Adjustments
The NSW government has announced additional public transport services to assist affected communities:
- March 13 (Friday): Amended school and regular bus services operated by Lithgow Buslines.
- March 13 (Saturday): Two coaches operating 12 daily NSW TrainLink services between Bathurst and Katoomba, with six services in each direction.
- March 15 (Sunday): Additional Sydney Train services planned between Bathurst and Mount Victoria.
- Additional bus and train services over the Blue Mountains have been implemented.
Political Responses
Local Government:
Lithgow Mayor Cassandra Coleman called for a non-partisan approach to finding solutions, stating her community is "bearing the brunt" of the traffic diversion and requesting practical solutions rather than political rhetoric.
State Government:
Regional Roads and Transport Minister Jenny Aitchison stated the situation is an "incredibly serious" major geotechnical failure, emphasizing the necessity of putting safety first. She did not directly confirm if a previously shelved tunnel plan would be reconsidered but stated "nothing was off the table." She rejected claims of underfunding regional roads, citing significant maintenance spending.
Opposition:
National state MP Paul Toole criticized the absence of a long-term vision for the region's infrastructure.
Background on Infrastructure Plans
Previous state and federal Coalition governments had funded initial phases of a 34km road widening project between Katoomba and Lithgow, which included an 11km twin-tunnel planned beneath Victoria Pass.
- In 2022, the Perrottet government ceased further funding for the project.
- In 2023, the Minns government entirely shelved the project after the Albanese government withdrew a $2 billion federal commitment.
- Remaining funds were reallocated to road maintenance in western Sydney and regional NSW.
- A 2.4km dual-lane road, costing $232 million, was constructed at either end of the planned tunnel route, bypassing Little Hartley but still connecting to the single-lane Victoria Pass.