UPPER Hunter Shire Council Mayor Wayne Bedggood has described a meeting with State Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey in Macquarie Street, Sydney, last week as “promising”.
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He says Minister Pavey assured council that Kelly Street would be fit for purpose for the traffic that will use it when the New England Highway Bypass of Scone is completed.
Mayor Bedggood joined with Upper Hunter Shire Council General Manager Steve McDonald and Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen to meet with Minister Pavey at Parliament House on Thursday, rallying for support for projects in preparation for post-bypass Scone.
Mayor Bedggood said that with the expected completion of the New England Highway Bypass only two years away, preparations need to begin now.
“The next two years will be crucial for ensuring the safety and amenity of Scone following the completion of the bypass,” he said.
“Council met to discuss financial assistance for the Scone town centre revitalisation; pavement upgrade of Kelly Street which is reaching the end of its 40 year design life; updating and implementing the Scone Flood Plain Risk Management Study and Plan; and a rail overpass to ensure emergency services have timely access throughout the town.
“The meeting included in depth discussion regarding the overpass and the implications and expectations with regard to emergency services.
“The overpass remains a high priority on the agenda, with the Upper Hunter Shire Council determined to see an outcome.”
The New England Highway Bypass aims to improve safety for local residents by removing a large number of cars and heavy vehicles from residential and shopping areas, along with reducing traffic noise and improving pedestrian safety.
