Waterfall Way will reopen to traffic this Sunday under one-way conditions, restoring a vital link between Bellingen and Dorrigo more than a week ahead of schedule.
From 22 March, vehicles will be able to pass through the slip site under temporary traffic lights, with one lane operating on the northern side and a reduced speed limit of 40 km/h in place.
The early reopening follows rapid safety works, including the installation of a gravel-filled shipping container wall designed to shield motorists from ongoing instability.
The closure has placed significant strain on local communities, freight operators and surrounding roads, particularly Summervilles Road, which has been used as a diversion.
Authorities say the reopening will allow school bus services to resume and ease congestion, but have warned the site remains active and conditions could change quickly.
Access will depend on the stability of the slope, with the road subject to closure at short notice due to rainfall, rockfall or shifting ground. Light vehicles will be redirected via Summervilles Road if needed, and access is limited to vehicles under three metres wide.
The works form part of a broader plan to assess and strengthen the Waterfall Way corridor, with Transport for NSW undertaking a detailed review between Bellingen and Dorrigo. The assessment, due in the second half of 2026, will guide both short-term improvements and long-term upgrades.
Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said the early reopening was the result of an intensive, coordinated effort.
“After an around-the-clock effort, Waterfall Way will reopen in time for the Easter long weekend, restoring a critical link for the region.
“I know this will be welcome news for a community that has been struggling, but I recognise that a full reopening is what the community needs and deserves. There is no silver bullet here – but I am committed to getting the job done safely.
“In the meantime, what has been achieved is extraordinary and a product of an amazing effort from Transport for NSW, Bellingen Shire Council and contractors, who have worked long hours to get this critical road safely reopened.
“I understand how tough this closure has been for local communities and freight, and I want to sincerely thank everyone for their patience.
“This reopening will restore connection between Dorrigo and Bellingen and take pressure off surrounding roads.
“However, I want to be honest with the community: this is still a live site, and access will depend on weather and ground conditions, we are doing everything we can to keep the community and freight moving safely.
“We’ll keep working to strengthen this corridor and improve its resilience for the long term.”
Member for Oxley Michael Kemp said the reopening would bring relief.
“This closure has had a significant impact on our communities, so seeing Waterfall Way reopen is a welcome relief.
“I’d like to thank everyone involved in the work, and our community for their patience while this was carried out safely.”
Bellingen Shire Council Mayor Steve Allan said the road was critical to the region.
“It cannot be understated how important access to Waterfall Way is to our community and to freight operators who rely on it every day.
“This was a huge team effort, and I want to thank everyone involved in getting the road reopened safely, as well as our community for their patience during a very challenging period.”
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