Wollongong has been declared a natural disaster area - nearly seven weeks after flash-floods swept through the city.
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The declaration will allow Wollongong City Council to apply for funding to repair damaged roads, especially Harry Graham Dr, which remains closed at Mt Keira due to a landslip.
‘‘It is too early to say how much repairs to this road will cost, but it’s safe to say we’re talking a substantial amount of money,’’ Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery said yesterday.
‘‘Any additional funds we can get will help us pay for repairs to this important road.
‘‘Council staff will also look at whether any other infrastructure or assets could benefit from this declaration.’’
The council will prepare a formal application for funding.
The addition of Wollongong, as well as the Bogan Shire, Hills Shire and Narromine, brings to 63 the number of areas declared natural disaster zones since heavy rainfall and floods struck the state in February and March.
The majority of the damage in Wollongong was confined to central and North Wollongong.
The Illawarra has been a regular inclusion on the list over the past 12 months, with Kiama and Shellharbour declared disaster areas last March and Shellharbour and Wollongong in July.
