The project proposes a $17 million upgrade for the full length of Hermitage Road and the intersection with Broke Road, on-road cycle ways and installation of tourist facilities including signage and rest areas.

Cessnock City Council general manager Stephen Glen was thrilled with the announcement yesterday that the project had been shortlisted.

“(It) is exciting news for Cessnock and our colleagues in Singleton,” Mr. Glen said.   

Cessnock and Singleton councils combined forces for the funding, as the roads are integral in connecting both areas, especially for local mine-industry traffic.

“Both LGAs are significantly impacted by mining due to their key location in the supply chain and economic route from the Port of Newcastle through to the Upper Hunter,” Mr. Glen said.

“Use of our road networks has substantially increased over the last 10 years and neither of us (councils) have the financial capacity to maintain and upgrade these roads to an acceptable and sustainable standard.

“An estimated 4945 journeys both to and from Cessnock occur every day, and that’s just from mineworkers – never mind the equipment, earth moving and machinery transport conducive with mining.”

If their submission is successful, both regions expect to see significant economic benefits.

The construction phase alone will provide an economic boost of up to $14.8 million for the Cessnock LGA.

A detailed application has been requested by the NSW Government by October 31 for the submission to proceed. This will include a business case, financial forecasts and a risk management strategy.

Cessnock City Council was added to the list of councils eligible for Resources For Regions funding in May this year.

At its August 6 meeting, council compiled a ‘wish list’ of projects to submit for expressions of interest for the funding program.