A vital transport corridor connecting the Northern Tablelands and Mid North Coast is one step closer to restoration, with Armidale Regional Council awarding the major contract for the $319 million reconstruction of the Kempsey-Armidale Road.
Bielby Holdings Pty Ltd has been appointed to deliver the extensive restoration works between Big Hill and Blackbird Flat – a stretch severely impacted by landslips and natural disasters since the 2019 bushfires and subsequent floods. Â
Jointly funded by the Federal and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements , the awarding of the contract marks the largest Essential Public Asset Restoration project ever undertaken in NSW.
“After the 2019 bushfires and subsequent flooding in 2020 and 2022, the scale of damage to the Kempsey – Armidale Road corridor was massive. Under the Liberals and Nationals, recovery of the natural disaster damage on the corridor was stalled,” said NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison.
“Having seen first-hand the impact of the destruction and deterioration of this vital road and the terrible flow-on effect for local people, farmers, freight operators and businesses, the Minns Labor Government worked collaboratively with Council and the Federal Government to ensure that the road could be reopened.
“The awarding of this contract to deliver the largest ever road reconstruction project ever delivered in NSW, is welcome news and a testament to the collaborative approach that the NSW Labor government has taken to reconnecting our regional, rural and remote communities, impacted by natural disasters.”
The NSW Reconstruction Authority and Transport for NSW have worked closely with the Council to progress the complex project, providing technical expertise and support through the planning and procurement stages.
“The NSW Reconstruction Authority will continue to work closely with Armidale Regional Council and the contractor to support delivery of this critical infrastructure and ensure the road is rebuilt to better withstand future natural hazards,” said NSW Reconstruction Authority Executive Director Reconstruction, Graham Kennett.
The project will restore 43 kilometres of Kempsey-Armidale Road alongside a five-kilometre section of Lower Creek Road, ensuring greater resilience and reliability for local residents, freight, agriculture, and tourism.
Minister for Recovery and the North Coast, Janelle Saffin said the awarding of the construction contract was a huge step forward for the region.
“As the largest road reconstruction project ever delivered in New South Wales following a disaster, this landmark $319 million investment reflects just how vital state and federal support is for restoring key regional transport links,” she said.
“Communities along the Northern Tablelands and Mid North Coast rely on the Kempsey-Armidale Road every day. Restoring this essential link is about bringing certainty back to the region – supporting local families, boosting businesses, and ensuring everyone has safe, reliable access to services and, most importantly, to each other.”
Site mobilisation and early works are scheduled to begin in the coming months, with major construction launching in 2027. Peak construction will create over 220 local jobs, with completion targeted for late 2029.
“We look forward to working with Bielby to deliver this major project and restore a critical connection for our region,” said Armidale Regional Council Mayor, Sam Coupland.
“A fully restored Kempsey-Armidale Road will improve access for local communities, support agriculture and business, and open up a beautiful part of our region to greater tourism and economic opportunities.”
