6 December 2018 – The Northern Territory Government has called for tenders to seal the notorious dirt section of the much lauded Litchfield Park Road loop, a move it hopes will bolster regional NT’s economy in the long run.
In a statement announcing the plan the Government said the scope of work will include the installation of a new bridge over the Finniss River and a sealed two-lane, two-way rural arterial road with a speed limit of up to 100km/hr. The Government says the completion of the Litchfield Park Road loop will deliver increased flood immunity and improvements in safety, with the thoroughfare previously becoming impassable during the wet season due to flooding at the Finniss River.
“The sealing will mean residents, tourists and the cattle industry will all have year-round access to Litchfield National Park and the surrounding area via the Stuart Highway through Batchelor or via Cox Peninsula Road.”
NT Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics, Eva Lawler.
While not detailing the investment figure it’s believed the project will support 80 jobs and provide year-round access for local residents, Litchfield National Park visitors and pastoral and agriculture industries. The Government says the works – alongside the $12.1 million to develop adventure opportunities in Litchfield National Park as part of Turbocharging Tourism – will also provide additional visitor capacity within the park and support five new stunning swimming spots, 4WD tracks, new campgrounds and more picnic areas. It is estimated this expansion will support an additional 60,000 visitors annually, providing a significant boost to regional tourism.
It is anticipated all of the newly sealed road will be open to the public prior to 2020-2021 wet season.
