The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government will invest $6.5 million to upgrade critical freight routes in the Upper Hunter Electorate to improve connectivity and road access for heavy vehicles.
Member for Upper Hunter Dave Layzell said the funding would replace Brunners Bridge over Glendon Brook on Gresford Road, Mitchells Flat.
“We’re getting on with the job of improving the roads you use every day to help you get from A to B safer and quickly, especially for those travelling between Singleton, Elderslie and Gresford,” Mr Layzell said.
“I’m very happy to see this key freight route in our region receive vitally important upgrades that will keep our local economy moving.”
Singleton Mayor Sue Moore has welcomed the funding for the replacement of Brunners Bridge as part of the Fixing Country Roads Program.
“Currently the bridge has a load limit of 42.4 tonnes and can only accommodate one heavy vehicle at any one time. Following the completion of the project, the new bridge will have two lanes in each direction and be able to accommodate a loading of 65 tonnes.”
“The ability for the bridge to accommodate heavier vehicles will increase operational efficiencies and improve the accessibility for cattle delivery to the Singleton Regional Livestock Market.”
“Gresford Road is an important economic link for the region and this project will further support heavy vehicle infrastructure and allow for the Singleton region to accommodate new agribusiness opportunities.”
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the latest round of funding under the Fixing Country Roads program will deliver 29 road upgrades to fast-track journeys for freight operators and drive down the cost of getting goods to market.
“The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is strengthening our supply chain to keep our state moving forward,” Mr Farraway said.
“Every 100 kilometres out of a truck driver’s way costs more than $300, so helping councils build the infrastructure to reduce time on the road will ultimately reduce costs for families at the supermarket check-out.
“We know that cost-of-living pressures are hurting household budgets, which is why a re-elected NSW Liberal and Nationals Government will work to keep strengthening our supply chain by upgrading freight rail and road infrastructure and appointing a new Supply Chain Commissioner.
“Today’s funding also delivers benefits for all regional road users, including school bus drivers, other transport operators, and locals in rural communities who use these roads on a daily basis.
“Better surfaces and wider lanes can lead to fewer accidents and less travel time, reducing fatigue risks.”
The latest round of funding brings the total number of projects funded through the Fixing Country Roads Program to more than 340 across over 80 regional NSW councils.
PICTURE CAPTION: Senator Matt Canavan, Minister for Regional Transport & Roads Sam Farraway, Dave Layzell & Singleton Mayor Cr. Sue Moore at the Fixing Country Roads announcement.
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