Berrigan Shire Council said the Hill St project remains on hold until the gas network operator’s preferred contractor is able to complete the adjustments.
Council has refuted community speculation the pause is due to budgetary issues.
The $849,498 project, being delivered by Mawsons Constructions, is designed to significantly improve storm water management and road durability on Hill St.
Works include new reinforced concrete stormwater pipes, upgraded drainage pits, kerb and gutter improvements, full road reconstruction and associated civil works.
Minor pavement reinstatement and road surface restoration will also form part of the final stage.
Council reports the project is about 30 per cent complete, with 95 per cent of stormwater pipe and pit installation already finished.
However, site conditions have identified a potential need for pavement stabilisation, which was not included in the original scope and may extend the project timeline if required.
The project is funded by council and remains within the approved budget at this time, a council spokesperson said.
“Hill St was identified for renewal due to drainage deficiencies and failing road and drainage assets,” a council update said.
“As works progressed, additional stormwater infrastructure and disused services were uncovered that were not accurately reflected in council’s existing asset information.
“These findings required a review of the construction methodology and service levels, including the need to lower existing gas service connections so they can be safely accommodated within the renewed road and drainage works.
“This has created a hold point while council awaits confirmation from the contractor and the approved gas service contractor regarding the required works and timeframe.”
At this stage, council is unable to confirm when the gas service works will be completed.
Council is continuing to liaise with contractors and will provide residents with an update as soon as a confirmed timeframe is available.
While construction is paused, Hill St remains open to local traffic only, with reduced speed limits in place.
Barriers, bollards, signage and temporary fencing have been installed to maintain public safety, and council continues to inspect the site regularly to ensure it remains safe and accessible.
Residents have been advised that, once works resume, the staged construction approach may involve temporary driveway access changes, altered bin collection points, short‑term water disruptions and road closures or detours.
Council will notify residents of major impacts through letterbox drops and provide timely updates as the project progresses.
The works were originally expected to take around 12 weeks, weather permitting.
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