Council moves to revitalise vital road in Andergrove
Published on 07 August 2025
Mackay Regional Council advises that works are under way to renew Oak Street, Andergrove.
Contractor Downer will commence stage two works on the Oak Street upgrade project in Andergrove from today (Thursday, August 7) weather permitting.
The multi-stage project began in 2023 with stormwater pipe relining.
Stage two focuses on underground drainage works and is expected to be completed by late November 2025.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the project was a vital step towards improving local infrastructure and minimising long-term maintenance.
“Oak Street is an important link for residents,” Mayor Williamson said.
“We know commuters who use this road have been asking for an upgrade and we are confident that motorists will notice a marked improvement once stage four is completed,” he said.
“This upgrade is about providing safer, smarter and more durable infrastructure that supports our community's growth,” Mayor Williamson said.
“We know there will be some inconvenience, but the long-term gains will make it worth it.”
Council Infrastructure and Operations Director Simon Taylor said Oak Street was a complex project.
He said council’s Project Management team and contractor Downer had devised some innovative solutions that would deliver an excellent finished product while saving ratepayers considerable expense.
“Anyone who drives Oak Street knows that it has some noticeable areas where the surface is quite poor and heavily patched,” Mr Taylor said.
“This is caused by the stormwater culvert joints failing below the road and allowing materials to wash away beneath the surface,” he said.
“There’s no immediate safety risk, but the subsoil movement means the road is much more susceptible to damage.
“Current works will involve rehabilitating these concrete box culverts and motorists will mostly notice excavations at various locations beside Oak Street and the temporary use of some steel road plates to cover access points.
“These can create some road noise and will also mean reduced speed limits will be in place.
“Once the underground works are complete, we will move into stage three of the project early next year which will include new kerbing (on shopping centre side), new subsoil drainage under the kerb, a new footpath and the restoration of the road surface above the culverts.
The third and final stage is expected to start from about July 2026 and will include a new full-width, asphalt pavement on Oak Street from Maple Drive to Keeleys Road.
“Obviously this is a large, multistage project and we are at the mercy of the weather, but we are confident of an excellent final result that will deliver a durable, smooth road for motorists.”
Stage two works will run from 6.30am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, with occasional weekend work.
Two-lane traffic will be maintained for most of the project, although short periods of single-lane traffic may be required.
Council asks that motorists adhere to all signage instructions and obey reduced speed limits in the area to ensure the safety of workers.
Some on-street parking may be unavailable and property access may be affected for certain residents, who will be contacted 48 hours prior to any disruption.
Council acknowledges that noise and dust will accompany works and thanks the community for its patience.
To stay updated on project progress, visit connectingmackay.com.au/oak-st-upgrade