Regional Development Minister Anthony Albanese announced the road upgrade project was successful under round four of the Regional Development Australia Fund.

The Thunderbolts Way upgrade was one of the projects shortlisted for funding consideration by the local Regional Development Australia Northern Inland.

Nearly $1 billion was made available in the Regional Development Australia Fund as one of the conditions under Mr Windsor’s Agreement to Form Government after the last election.

“Thunderbolts Way is the quickest road to the coast for many people in the New England, but it has become so badly damaged by storms that some drivers are choosing longer alternative routes,” Mr Windsor said. “This funding will allow the worst sections near Walcha, Uralla and Gloucester to be repaired, widened and strengthened.

“These works will improve safety and travel times between the New England and the major centres on the coast.

“The upgraded road will also encourage more Sydney-Brisbane travellers to divert through the New England rather than using the Pacific Highway.

“So while six jobs will be created during construction, the flow-on effects to local businesses are expected to be much more economically significant.

“I’d like to congratulate the Walcha Shire Council Consortium for their successful application, and I’d like to thank the Federal government for directing this funding to local people,” Mr Windsor said.