Jointly contributed by State & Federal governments, the $100M funding has yet to be allocated with BLOR Business Council to formally consult with leaders on the matter having launched its $100m funding survey.
In a statement following the launch of the Bell’s Line Of Road Business Council’s survey inquiring into the $100M The Hon. Robyn Preston said “I welcome the effort of the BLORBC to provide feedback to community leaders on what needs to be addressed on Bells Line Of Road.”
Macquarie Federal MP Susan Templeman also praised the stakeholder group’s outreach “I really welcome any data and information that the BLOR Business Chamber can collect from residents and local businesses."
Both representatives’ feedback comes in the wake of the low-key announcement from both State and Federal governments at Mt Tomah on January 17 committing $100M toward safety upgrades for the roads. Considered one of the most dangerous stretches of road in the country, the steep, winding road has an accident rate that's higher than the state average, and was heavily impacted by extreme weather last year and record rainfall. Last year the road closed for months following a massive landslide.
The committed funds are said to be an 80/20 split between Federal and State Government. State Member for Hawkesbury added “Both Susan Templeman MP and I want to be kept abreast of the roads local issues and suggested solutions so that we can raise them with Transport for NSW and deal with practical solutions.
I’m sure Mayor McMahon and Hawkesbury City Council could contribute to.”
“While the NSW government will manage the project and put forward its advice on where the work should take place, I want to ensure that it is taking into account the experience and expertise of locals who, after all, know this road better than anyone. I look forward to receiving a briefing from the Chamber when its survey collection is completed.”
-Macquarie Federal MP Susan Templeman
In 2012, the state and federal governments made a long-term plan to improve the Bells Line of Road, and since then seven new overtaking lanes and wider sealed shoulders at three sites were introduced.
Transport for NSW continues to undertake repair work on the road following the extreme weather last March. This work is contracted via local government tender to Ventia.
Hawkesbury City Council’s management of this contract has been heavily criticised with below-standard work being delivered in an untimely manner along with poor planning and limited engineering, some describing the work and contract allocation as neglectful.
Ms Templeman outlined “While the NSW government will manage the project and put forward its advice on where the work should take place, I want to ensure that it is taking into account the experience and expertise of locals who, after all, know this road better than anyone.
I look forward to receiving a briefing from the Chamber when its survey collection is completed.”
At present, neither State nor Federal Governments hold any plans for funds allocation. The BLOR Business Council endorses the funding and continues to work with both levels of governments to share genuine insights and accurate reporting arising from it’s survey in order to best manage the funds.
The survey is still open for completion and will be externally audited.
The Bell’s Line Of Rd Business Council will meet with both State and Federal MPs in order to formally collaborate its reporting ahead of an official business council launch.
Have your say at the Bell’s Line Of Road Business Council’s Survey into the $100M Funding by clicking below.