Members from Advance Gloucester and Gloucester Business Chamber took advantage of a meeting last Friday, June 2 with Deputy Prime Minister, Barnaby Joyce, to discuss roads funding for the region.
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Teaming up with community representatives from Walcha and Uralla, Advance Gloucester deputy chair Rod Williams and Gloucester Business Chamber president, Stuart Redman sat down to debrief the Deputy PM about the state of the roads and what funding has already been approved.
First off, the group told Mr Joyce they were seeking a commitment from the federal government to match the $8.3 million recently announced (May 8) for the Bucketts Way south of Gloucester by NSW Minister for Roads, Melinda Pavey.
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Mr Williams said the group is working together in order to attract greater funding opportunities by developing a regional Bucketts/Thunderbolts Way transport corridor strategy. The project stretches from the Bucketts Way at the Pacific Highway, north of Raymond Terrace, through to the Thunderbolts Way, up to the New England region.
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Mr Joyce was asked about the federal government contributing $1.5 million towards the Giro section of the Thunderbolts Way, to match the amount that MidCoast Council have already budgeted.
“The improvements sought will increase productivity, access and safety for all road users as well as opening up further opportunities for economic growth through more efficient freight movement,” Mr Williams said.
According to Advance Gloucester, the NSW government has yet to indicate their commitment to this $4.5 million project designed to help address a significant history of heavy vehicle accidents, including fatalities, at this location.
“The enthusiasm and commitment of those involved in the delegation is extremely encouraging, as was the Deputy PM’s reception,” Mr Williams said.
A spokesperson for the Deputy PM’s office has stated that Mr Joyce will raise these issues with the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Darren Chester.
Mr Redman took the opportunity to highlight the success of the AGL Gloucester Independent Legacy Fund, which has so far resulted in a around 65 new jobs in the region.
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The Chamber and Advance Gloucester have indicated that with initial funds drying up, both are keen to encourage financial interest from both State and federal sources in an effort to continue to stimulate economic confidence.
Anne Keen
Anne has been a journalist with the ACM (Australia Community Media) since 2016. She primarily works at the Gloucester Advocate but also contributes to the Manning River Times.
Anne has been a journalist with the ACM (Australia Community Media) since 2016. She primarily works at the Gloucester Advocate but also contributes to the Manning River Times.
