Forest access roads in central Newfoundland to close for spring thaw

Several forest access roads across central Newfoundland will be temporarily closed to vehicle traffic beginning April 21 due to spring thaw conditions.

The provincial government says the closures will affect areas including Point Leamington, Botwood, Lewisporte, Glenwood, Birchy Bay, Gander Bay, Gambo and Glovertown. Gates will be put in place and signage posted to notify motorists of the closures.

Officials say the seasonal shutdown is necessary to prevent damage to roads during the thaw period, when softer ground conditions can make surfaces more vulnerable.

While vehicles will be restricted, the roads will remain open for snowmobile and all-terrain vehicle use.

A number of routes are included in the closure, such as Salmon Pond Access Road, Birchy Bay Access Road, Otter Pond Access Road and several others throughout the region.

The province says the closures will remain in effect until further notice, with roads expected to reopen once conditions improve.