Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Roads and Rail Kevin Anderson MP today released the Golden Highway Corridor Strategy which details plans to maintain and improve over 300 kilometres of road connecting the Hunter Valley and Dubbo.

“The NSW and Federal Governments have already committed $133 million to the upgrade of the Golden Highway, which is an important freight link and one of only three routes north of Sydney where trucks can cross over the Great Dividing Range,” said Mr Anderson.

“We expect to see more freight vehicles, some up to 26 metres long, using this road in the coming years. This strategy outlines a range of projects that will make it safer to navigate for both trucks and cars.

“Planned work includes the creation of new overtaking and climbing lanes near Denman, Winery Hill, Ogilvies Hill, as well as between the New England Highway and Putty Road. A number of intersections have also been identified for upgrades, along with the level crossing at Denman.

“Sections of road will be repaired and widened with additional work undertaken to reduce the impact of flooding at Talbragar River, Uarby and Mudies Creek, Whittingham. Three new heavy vehicle inspection sites will also be created.”

According to CEO, Todd Williams, RDA Hunter warmly welcomes the Golden Highway Corridor Strategy which addresses the key improvements to the corridor identified in its Hunter Economic Infrastructure Plan. “The upgrade of the Golden Highway will unlock access to international gateways including the Port of Newcastle and Newcastle Airport and is therefore very important for economic growth in both the Hunter and Orana regions.”

“For this reason it was identified as a key priority in our Hunter Economic Infrastructure Plan and we are very pleased that both State and Federal Governments are supporting its improvement.” continued Mr Williams.

The Golden Highway Corridor Strategy was developed by Transport for NSW and Roads and Maritime Services, with valuable feedback provided by the community and local stakeholders, including councils.

The full strategy can be downloaded at: www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects-road-network-corridor-planning