Council selects cul-de-sac option as Clarence Town bridge project progresses

DUNGOG Shire Council has endorsed the implementation of a cul-de-sac at the Durham and Duke Street intersection in Clarence Town, as part of the New Clarence Town Bridge project.

“This treatment will support safe pedestrian and cyclist access to the Williams River Holiday Park while accommodating the required heavy vehicle turning movements following completion of the new bridge,” Dungog Shire Council said in a statement.

Council previously received a report outlining community feedback on four proposed design options for the intersection.

The options were placed on public exhibition between 5 December 2025 and 23 January 2026, with 33 valid submissions received.

All four options maintained pedestrian and cycle access to the Williams River Holiday Park and accommodated required heavy vehicle turning movements.

The designs varied in their treatment of vehicle access, intersection configuration and pedestrian safety measures.

“Option 3 removes the Durham Street intersection by introducing a cul-de-sac, eliminating turning conflicts and reducing overall traffic movements in the immediate area,” Council stated.

“It also provides improved pedestrian safety through better sight lines and a full centre median refuge with hard barrier protection.

“While this option may result in slightly longer travel distances (up to 900 metres) for some residents and users accessing nearby facilities, it significantly reduces vehicle, pedestrian and cyclist conflict points.”

Council states that cost estimates for Option 3 can be accommodated within the project’s existing budget allocation.

After considering the community feedback and undertaking a detailed safety assessment, Council noted the submissions received and adopted Option 3 – Cul-de-sac in Durham Street, recognising it delivers the “highest overall safety outcome for all road users”.