THE first stage of reconstruction of Old Caves Road in Naracoorte has been started by Naracoorte Lucindale Council.
The Old Caves Road links Naracoorte to the World Heritage listed Naracoorte Caves, a key tourism destination for South Australia and the region.
Due to this link, the Old Caves Road has been identified by the Naracoorte Lucindale Council and the Limestone Coast Local Government Association as an important regional tourism route in need of upgrading so the road is suitable for tourism traffic.
Mayor Erika Vickery OAM said once completed the Old Caves Road would provide an important link from Naracoorte to the iconic caves.
“Ensuring Old Caves Road is suitable for tourism traffic, such as caravans and recreational vehicles, means visitors can be directed through the Naracoorte Town Centre and then via the Old Caves Road to the Naracoorte Caves, rather than travelling along the Riddoch Highway,” Ms Vickery said.
“This offers the opportunity of significant added benefit to the Naracoorte Town Centre with visitors stopping for a refreshment or to explore other parts of town they may not have considered.
“This project also supports the Naracoorte Caves Connection Concept Statement which highlights the importance of the Naracoorte Caves and the Naracoorte town being well connected to increase economic benefit to Naracoorte.”
The Naracoorte Lucindale Council secured a $618,000 grant from the Special Local Roads Program, supplementing the stage one project cost of $1.27m.
It is anticipated stage one will be completed by the middle of February.
