Move FM Regional news

LITHGOW, Central West, NSW, Australia – Damage to the Lithgow CBD caused by the implementation of the NBN is being addressed. And the cost will be borne by NBNCo.

Works are underway or planned to restore the city to its state prior to the NBN works.

Lithgow City Council has issued a statement, which it says is to clear up any misconceptions that people may have about this matter.

"Council notes the community’s concern over the state of the Main Street following the works undertaken by NBNCo.  We want to reassure everyone that restoration works to the pavers is scheduled to commence at the end of this month at the cost of NBNCo," the statement said.

"Under the funding deed for Stage 1 of the CBD Revitalisation Project Council was subject to strict timelines.  Therefore, during the planning process for the revitalisation of Cook Street Plaza and the Eskbank Street Intersection, Council made contact with Telstra and NBNCo. regarding the impending construction and requested that the Lithgow NBN construction program be prioritised to coincide with Council’s works."

"Unfortunately," the Council said, "Telstra/NBN were not able to modify their construction program and Council was forced to commence works else funding for the project would have been placed at risk due to non-compliance with the funding agreement for the Revitalisation project."

"While Council acknowledges the damage incurred to Council’s infrastructure as a result of the NBN construction, staff have been working closely with NBNCo. representatives and their contractors to facilitate replacement of the disturbed infrastructure," the Lithgow Council statement said.

"NBNCo.’s contractors have been provided with exact details regarding the concrete mix and they have agreed to Council’s request for the replacement of whole slabs rather than trenches only to ensure a proper and complete restoration of the footpath and road surface. This restoration is being completed entirely at the cost of NBNCo."

"With regard to the pavers, Council has opted to manage the restoration of disturbed assets, entirely at the cost of NBNCo. This has allowed the appointment of a local contractor and allows greater control by Council of the quality of works completed. This work will commence the week of 27 May," the statement said.

"To date, the concrete restoration works undertaken by NBNCo. contractors is of high quality and with time, will match surrounding infrastructure and maintain the high quality of works completed to date."

(File photo).