Inverell Shire Council has endorsed the 2025/2026 Heavy Patching Program, approving the allocation of $1,233,812 from the Roads to Recovery Program to deliver priority road works
across the Shire.
Council maintains 974.9 kilometres of sealed road segments across its network. Heavy
patching is a critical part of routine maintenance, involving milling the existing road,
strengthening the pavement with stabilising agents or additional material and reshaping the
surface.
This process addresses significant pavement failures, corrects road shape and improves ride
quality. Importantly, heavy patching undertaken prior to bitumen resealing extends the useful
lifespan of the pavement and improves the longevity of the seal.
Council staff have compiled a priority list of road segments on both Regional and Local roads
requiring heavy patching. The program was developed through:
- Desktop analysis of asset condition data
- Review of customer requests
- In-field assessments by qualified staff
On average, a standard heavy patch on a moderately trafficked local road costs
approximately $36 per square metre, with contingencies built in to manage unforeseen
circumstances.
Funding for the program comes from the NSW Government Roads to Recovery Program, a
five-year grant allocation. For the current financial year, $1,233,812 has been allocated to
heavy patching works.
Mayor Cr Kate Dight said the program reflects Council’s commitment to maintaining safe and
reliable road infrastructure:
“Our community depends on a strong and resilient road network. By investing in heavy patching now, we are not only improving safety and ride quality, but also extending the life of our roads. This program ensures that Council continues to deliver value for money and long-term benefits for residents.”
Council’s construction teams will deliver the program, supplemented by contractors where
required. Works are scheduled to commence in January 2026 and will be completed before
the end of the 2025/2026 financial year.
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