Repairs and improvement on one of the worst roads in state expected to boost rural trucking productivity
It has long been the target of industry and social complaint but The Bucketts Way, north of Newcastle, is to be upgraded.
The road has been a regular NRMA contender for the worst road in the state.
The news that $8.3 million being dedicated to the project makes for welcome reading for the Livestock, Bulk and Rural Carriers Association (LBRCA), which thanked the government for its attention to country roads.
LBRCA past president Jock Carter joined New South Wales roads minister Melinda Pavey and member for Upper Hunter Michael Johnsen at the announcement event at Limeburners Creek.
“The LBRCA has supported council and the local community in developing and seeking funding for this important upgrade,” Carter says.
“This project is an example of what can be achieved when community, government and industry work together to achieve a better outcome for NSW businesses and communities, which are reliant on efficient and safe road freight services.”
The LBRCA has supported the state government’s Fixing Country Roads Program and has been an advocate for increasing funding for rural and regional roads.
The project which includes several safety initiatives, including the construction of passing lanes, will improve safety for all road users, the organisiation says.
The Bucketts Way is a key freight corridor for movement of freight between Newcastle and the northern tablelands as well as being a significant tourist route.
“Those using Bucketts Way to access the northern tablelands realise it is less distance to travel to areas such as Walcha and Uralla.
“This provides an economic and productivity edge especially for the agricultural and heavy vehicle transport sector on the northern tablelands.”
The LBRCA has supported the collaboration between councils, led by Midcoast Council.
Whilst welcoming the NSW State Government funding, Carter indicated that the opportunity for the Federal government to become part of this significant upgrade needs to be taken up.
“It is great to see this funding,” he says.
“The next stage of the project includes the upgrade of Giro, including a large safety improvement and already Midcoast Council has committed $1.5m to the upgrade. It would be great see the NSW and Federal government match this funding.”