The NSW Government is providing $109 million, with an additional $24 million provided by the Australian Government, for a package of work being delivered on the Golden Highway between Whittingham and Dubbo.

“These proposed upgrades are part of the package of work which aims to improve safety, network reliability and freight access along this vital route,” Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen said.

“The proposal for Whittingham involves building a new 30-metre long bridge across Mudies Creek, which would be three metres higher than the current road level to improve travel reliability on the highway during flood events.

“A six-kilometre section of the Golden Highway between Whittingham and Mount Thorley would also be upgraded including providing overtaking lanes in both directions, a smoother road surface, as well as safety barriers, wider road shoulders and improved clear zones.”

Mr Johnsen said there were also proposed upgrades of a two-kilometre section near Ogilvies Hill and a seven-kilometre stretch between Bowmans Crossing and Saddlers Creek, about nine kilometres west of Jerrys Plains also known locally as Winery Hill.

“These proposals aim to improve safety and traffic flow by providing overtaking lanes in both directions, new signage and line marking at Ogilvies Hill and Winery Hill,” he explained.

“In addition to this, the proposal would include rebuilding and realigning the road, shoulder widening, providing improved clear zones and drainage improvements along these sections of the Golden Highway.”

Roads and Maritime Services invites the community and stakeholders to provide feedback on the proposed upgrades by Wednesday, May 9, which can be provided by mailing the Golden Highway Program Office, Roads and Maritime, Locked Bay 2030, Newcastle 2300.

For more information about the proposals, visit the Roads and Maritime website at www.rms.work/goldenhighway