The first stage of major work to improve the Mud Walls Secondary
Road in the southern Midlands has begun.

There'll be preliminary work between now and October - subject
to weather - to extend culverts and remove trees, in preparation for the next
stage north of Colebrook.

The Minister for Infrastructure, David O'Byrne, said the $8
million project is part of the State Government's four-year, $90 million
Community Roads program.

"Good regional roads help keep our communities connected, and
support our important tourism, agriculture and mining industries," Mr O'Byrne
said.

"The works on Mud Walls Secondary Road will provide safer
travel, an improved pavement surface, and better drainage to protect the 10.2
kilometre section of road.

"We appreciate just how important this road is for the local
community.

"We'll be working as fast and safely as possible to deliver this
significant upgrade, to what's become a major alternative route to the Midlands
Highway," he said.

The works (over two stages are) on the section of road extending
north from the railway crossing near Wallaby Rivulet culvert to Ringwood Creek
culvert.

Heritage and environmental values have been carefully
considered, and will be managed during construction.

The work is being conducted by the Tasmanian company, Andrew
Walter Construction Pty Ltd, and is expected to be finished by February 2013,
depending on weather.