The NSW Government program aims to deliver improved local infrastructure to mining-affected communities.

Cessnock Council will submit expressions of interest applications for a cycleway from Branxton to Greta and another bike path connecting Cessnock to Kurri Kurri and the Hunter Expressway.

The upgrade of Bridges Hill, Convent Hill and East End Oval; improvements to Cessnock Airport; the second stage of the Cessnock CBD revitalisation project; and the replacement of Abbotsford Street bridge at Bellbird are also on council’s wish list for Resources for Regions funding.

Projects submitted must be for public infrastructure and demonstrate good value for money, sound project planning, positive economic benefit and region-wide impacts.

Resources for Regions has provided $236 million to 42 projects since 2012.

Cessnock became eligible to apply for the funding in 2014, when a decision was made to extend the program to include communities impacted by mining legacy issues.

Cessnock Council secured joint funding with Singleton Council to the tune of $16.7 million for the Broke Road and Hermitage Road upgrade and cycleway project in 2015.

Cessnock mayor Bob Pynsent said the program provides excellent opportunities for the region and he hopes to see some of these projects come to fruition.

“We will put our best foot forward for this round of funding in the hope of securing the maximum amount for our nominated projects,” Cr Pynsent said.

Councils, community groups and non-government organisations in mining-affected communities outside of the Sydney metropolitan area are welcome to apply for the program.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald MLC said the program recognises the impact mining operations have on local infrastructure and services.

“Resources for Regions provides extra support for projects such as road upgrades and improvements to regional airports, as well as community facilities that improve the quality of life in mining towns,” Mr MacDonald said.

“With applications currently open, I encourage local councils, community groups and non-government organisations to identify potential projects and how we can turn these ideas into a reality.

“I look forward to working with the community to workshop projects to develop strong applications that we can submit for funding.”

Submissions must be made by 5pm on August 18. For more information, visit www.nsw.gov.au/resources-for-regions.