RESIDENTS and business owners in Wandong and Broadford are voicing growing frustration over the impacts of the Inland Rail project, citing safety risks, poor consultation, and major disruptions to daily life.
Concerns have been particularly strong around the replacement of the Broadford–Wandong Road bridge, which many locals say has created unsafe conditions for pedestrians. Residents report that construction works have blocked off pre-existing routes to the school, train station and shops, forcing them to walk on live roads.
Wandong resident Ashleigh Edge, whose home is close to the works, said she now faces unsafe conditions walking her daughter to and from school.
“I was informed by the senior engineer of the Wandong Bridge project (John Holland) that they cannot and will not provide safe pedestrian access for us from Broadford–Wandong Road onto Rail Street during the project,” Ms Edge said.
She added that a representative from the contractor told her the company “would prefer that the family did not walk through the construction site,” despite the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 and Regulations 2017 requiring safe pedestrian access during such works.
Online community discussions reflect similar frustrations, with one resident describing the bridge replacement as “overkill for a country town,” while another noted that there is “no proper area to walk along” the road. Others have criticised the over reach of traffic control management, claiming that cars are unnecessarily stopped to allow construction vehicles unfettered access.
In Broadford, businesses near the construction of three new bridges, at Hamilton Street, Short Street, and Marchbanks Road, have been hit by detours and access restrictions. Two businesses have closed, and others say they are struggling.
Road closures and detours, particularly due to access over the Hamilton Street bridge have made it difficult for families to access schools, childcare and shops. Many questioning whether the long-term benefits will outweigh the immediate strain on the town’s residents and infrastructure.
Tracey Waterfall, owner of All Things Uniform, said she has been under pressure since the works began but she praised Mitchell Shire Council and its engagement officer for providing consistent support to affected local traders.
“Council is doing what it can to help businesses with regular meets to help address our concerns,” she said.
In response to questions from this masthead, an Inland Rail spokesperson said the site access point from the High Street service road is essential to ensure safety for road users, pedestrians and its workforce, adding that the contractor provides updates on planned works near the Hamilton Street site.
