Roads
Many roads in the Southern Downs require urgent attention to cope with the increasing amount of traffic to our region and to maintain supply chain connectivity for the nation. This includes several roads with connecting bridges that are approaching the end of their safe working life and may become unable to pass during heavy rainfall. Upgrading these roads is critical from both a traffic safety perspective and for disaster resilience and supply into south-east Queensland.
Our community members have the right to safe and accessible roads. Intervention is required now if we are to cope with the expected future demand with potential renewable energy projects, tourism and industry growth in the lead up to the 2032 Olympics and to create mitigation against natural disasters.
SDRC has raised three areas for immediate priority in the 2026-27 budget submission process.
- Accommodation Creek Bridge crossing upgrade on the New England Highway (south of Stanthorpe).
- Re-sealing a 5.4km section of Old Stanthorpe Road
- OO Madsen Bridge upgrade (Warwick)
Each priority requires a funding commitment from the Queensland Government, with the ultimate goal to have the works included in the 2026-27 QTRIP.