Construction has started on the final 12 kilometres of Litchfield Park Road and the bridge over the Lower Finniss River to ensure year-round access – supporting 80 local jobs.
Litchfield Park is one of the most loved destinations in the Territory with about 340,000 visitors per year and a projected annual economic benefit of $14 million to the Territory once construction is complete.
Local company Ostojic Group was awarded the $26 million contract in May 2019 to construct a new bridge over the Lower Finniss River and complete the upgrade and sealing of the last 12 kilometres of Litchfield park road, completing the loop road.
The upgrades are essential in order to ensure the road is kept open during the wet season where it would normally be closed for long periods.
It is anticipated that the road will effectively become a scenic tourist loop through the National Park expanding visitor experience, attracting more visitors, tourist and locals alike throughout the year, rather than being limited to the dry season.
Jobs are being provided to Traditional Owners and local Aboriginal people who have strong connections to the area, and the Northern Territory Government will continue to work with Traditional Owners to ensure their involvement in the project.
In order to improve the flood immunity of the road, road safety and improved access for remote communities, towns in Litchfield Park and surrounds, progressive upgrades and sealing have occurred on Litchfield Park Road over a number of years.
Works are expected to be completed by late 2020, weather permitting.
The Northern Territory Government has contributed $39 million to the entire project, and the Australian Government has made available $5.7 million as part of the Asset Recycling Initiative.
Source: NT Government
