A road upgrade in Weddin and Forbes Shires to create a major heavy vehicle route linking the Newell Highway to busy grain handling facilities at Wirrinya is now complete.
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Local Nationals’ MP and Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the Federal Government provided $800,000 to the project under Round 5 of the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program (HVSPP).
“The Newell Highway is a critical freight artery for the Riverina and Central West, as well as one of Australia’s busiest highways,” Mr McCormack said.
“The Newell Highway to Wirrinya Heavy Vehicle Route upgrade will strengthen the regional freight network for the Central West, providing a vital transport link for the grain and livestock industries and significantly improving productivity and safety outcomes for heavy vehicle operations.”
NSW Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey said the upgrade was part of the NSW Government’s commitment to improving regional freight links through the Restart NSW Fixing Country Roads program.
“This Government is proud to be able to invest in more efficient and reliable road networks, directly benefiting the freight industry, which is worth $60 billion to the NSW economy,” Mrs Pavey said.
Weddin Shire Mayor Clr Mark Liebich said the project would also provide benefits for the transport of livestock and agricultural supplies, with the route able to support higher volumes of freight, as well as improve safety for all road users, including those on the school bus that uses the road.
“I am proud the Forbes and Weddin Shire Councils worked collaboratively to deliver this important freight link for the Central West,” Cr Liebich said.
Parliamentary Secretary for Western NSW Rick Colless said a 12.6-kilometre section of the road – known as Bewleys Road in the Weddin Shire and Wirrinya Road in the Forbes Shire – was widened, had its culverts strengthened, intersections realigned and rail crossings improved to allow access for an increased number of heavy vehicles.
“The upgrade will allow B-doubles, road trains and other heavy vehicles to use the road as a direct route between the Newell Highway and Wirrinya,” Mr Colless said.
The Australian Government committed $800,000 to the project, Forbes Shire Council contributed $600,000 and Weddin Shire Council contributed $200,000.
