Tenders are now open to build the Cessnock Road upgrade at Testers Hollow to reduce the impact of flooding and improve connectivity across the region.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Federal and NSW Liberal and ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾s Governments were investing in the upgrade to raise the height of Cessnock Road at Testers Hollow to provide a more reliable connection when it floods.
“The Federal Liberal and ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾s Government is rolling out a record $100 billion pipeline of infrastructure projects right across the nation to get Australians to where they need to be sooner and safer,” Mr McCormack said.
“This important project will improve connectivity between the Maitland area, Hunter Expressway and for the broader community.”
Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Roads and Infrastructure Chris Gulaptis said the upgrade included building a new two-lane road at a level about 1.5 metres higher than the existing road.
“This is an important project that will ensure the local community can stay connected during certain flooding events,” Mr Gulaptis said.
“It’s great to see both the Federal and NSW Governments investing in regional infrastructure that can make a real difference to communities.”
Senator for New South Wales Holly Hughes said severe weather events often close Cessnock Road resulting in expensive maintenance and repair costs.
“The new two-lane road will include two-metre shoulders and will be around 900 metres long between Gillieston Heights and Cliftleigh, built alongside the existing road,” Ms Hughes said.
Member of the Legislative Council Catherine Cusack said an environmental assessment was carried out to identify the potential impacts of the proposed upgrade and determine activities to reduce them.
“The NSW Government will continue working with the community to understand any issues and to minimise any potential impacts,” Ms Cusack said.
The Federal Liberal and ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾s Government has committed $15 million and the NSW Government had announced $2 million for the upgrade of Cessnock Roads at Testers Hollow.
A submission report summarising community comments on the project, Transport for NSW responses and details of the decision can be viewed .
Interested companies have until 1 April to submit a tender, before the successful contractor is expected to be announced in the coming months.
Construction on the project is expected to start later this year and take about two years to complete, weather permitting.
The community will be kept informed as the project progresses.
