LOCALS WANT ACTION ON FORSTER-TUNCURRY BRIDGE PROJECT

The Forster-Tuncurry and Great Lakes community has made it very clear that work must begin as soon as possible on addressing traffic congestion either side of the bridge connecting Forster and Tuncurry.

Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie said his recent Vision 2030 Plan survey of the electorate revealed several key priority projects for the region.

“In this area, the number one project highlighted by the community was the construction of a new four-lane bridge between Forster and Tuncurry in conjunction with other smaller road projects either side of the current bridge to improve traffic flow,” Dr Gillespie said.

“This is a project of such regional significance that the NSW Government will need support from the Federal Government to undertake construction of the bridge.

“I understand Transport for NSW has been undertaking investigations in consultation with MidCoast Council and several immediate options have been identified to improve the local road network so that traffic congestion can be eased.”

Dr Gillespie said he would both meet with and formally write to the Federal Minister for Infrastructure Catherine King highlighting the need and significance of the project.

“We are living in a major growth corridor and since the Covid Pandemic, population growth has accelerated even further. Tourism has also boosted the regular population not just during school holidays, but in the times in between because many people come here not just on weekends but as part as part of their working week placing more pressure on the local road network,” Dr Gillespie said.

“I am pleased the State Government has started its investigations, but it is now incumbent upon them and MidCoast Council to begin the planning process for the new bridge, and commence construction on the necessary road projects in both Forster and Tuncurry that can be undertaken

Dr Gillespie said he had discussed the issue with both the State Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead and The Nationals Candidate for Myall Lakes Tanya Thompson about the urgency of taking the project to the design stage.

“I thank Steve Bromhead for getting the initial investigation process underway last year and I know Tanya Thompson is acutely of the need to get this project underway. With the support of both the State Government and MidCoast Council, work can begin addressing some of this traffic congestion problems now,” Dr Gillespie said.

Dr Gillespie said he would report back to the community on his consultations with the Federal Minister.