Roads in the Upper Hunter are set for further upgrades under the latest instalment of the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery Program.

Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said Upper Hunter Shire Council will receive a funding payment of $675,873, which forms part of a $7.3 million investment for the shire in the 2019-20 to 2023-24 funding period. 

Upgrades currently in progress include a $400,000 upgrade of Tullong Road at Middlebrook and a $350,000 upgrade of Bunnan Rd at Scone. Funding for these roads will be drawn over multiple quarters.

“These roads are a vital part of everyday life for people in the Upper Hunter,” Mr Joyce said.

“They also contribute to the economic prosperity of the region, delivering stock to markets and regional tourists to local communities.

“That’s why I’m putting my shoulder to the wheel to make sure we continue to receive the roads funding people in the Upper Hunter need and deserve.”

Other roads also recently benefiting from upgrades under the program include sections of Hunter Road, Timor Crawney Rd, Gundy Rd, Kingdon St, Hill St, Dartbrook Rd, Nandowra Rd, Liverpool and Aberdeen St, Glenbawn Rd and Idaville Rd. 

Upper Hunter Shire Mayor Maurice Collison said the ongoing commitment to roads was appreciated.

“Roads are one of the top priorities for Upper Hunter residents. Our Shire covers about 8,000 square kilometres, so road improvements are labour intensive and big budget items. Council thanks the Australian Government for continuing to invest in the Upper Hunter,” Cr Collison said.

Total Roads to Recovery funding for New England councils from 2019-20 to 2023-24 is valued at more than $71 million and complements the Government’s $140 million investment for upgrades on the New England Highway under the Roads of Strategic Importance Program. 
 
(ENDS)