WORK to make a safer stretch of road at Moonan Cutting will require two controlled demolition explosions, which could commence as early as next week.
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Upper Hunter Shire Council Deputy Mayor Maurice Collison said it had been hoped the entire project could be completed with heavy earth moving equipment.
However, digging had reached a section of Meta-Sandstone rock that cannot be broken up.
“Explosions have been a last resort because we have reached rock that is just too hard,” Cr Collison said.
It is hoped only two vertical blasts will be required to break up the rock.
They will occur during daylight hours, with exclusion zones and other appropriate controls.
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has been notified.
Neighbouring residents will be informed by letterbox drop and there will also be emails sent to residents who have signed on to receive updates about the Moonan Cutting project.
Generally access to and from the area will continue to be available at the temporary bridge Council has installed.
During the actual blasts the bridge will be closed and there may be half hour delays for traffic.
A siren will sound before any blasts, this is general practice and residents should not be alarmed.
“Locals can see that this is a big and complex job and Council thanks them for their patience.
“It will be worth it to finally fix Moonan Cutting,” Cr Collison said.
Moonan Cutting is located 51km north east of Scone.
Motorists are urged to respect traffic signs for their own safety and that of other drivers and workers on site.
Residents who would like to be added to an email list to receive regular updates about the project should email their name and address to council@upperhunter.nsw.gov.au with the subject line ‘Moonan Cutting’.