West Dapto roads upgrade reaches design stage

21 November 2014

Labor MPs Anna Watson and Stephen Jones have welcomed the creation of new concept designs for substantial upgrades to key West Dapto roads as part of Labors commitment to improving flood-free access for local residents.

While the State Liberal Government has only promised the allocation of funds for the Fowlers Road extension, no action has been seen on the road and no construction will take place for at least another two years.

The former State and Federal Labor Governments provided Wollongong City Council with $40 million in total funding since 2010 ($26 million interest-free infrastructure loans by State Labor and $14 million by Federal Labor under Building Better Regional Cities Program) .

This funding has seen the construction of new local road links and bridges at Cleveland Road and Shone Avenue, West Dapto.

Labors funding has led to real roads and better road access, while the Liberals have only made promises none of which have yet to materialise, Ms Watson said.

Member for Throsby Stephen Jones said, Im very pleased that the $14 million provided to Wollongong City Council by the former Federal Labor Government is ensuring safer, flood-free access for West Dapto residents.

The concept designs Council is releasing for public comment includes the construction of two new bridges, road widening to four lanes, installing traffic lights and boom gates at the rail crossing at Wongawilli.

The release of these concept designs now mean the local community can provide important feedback before the bulldozers get to work, he said.

Wollongong City Council has organised an information session for the concept designs at Wongawilli Community Hall on Thursday evening, 27 November 2014 commencing at 6pm.

Further information can be found at Councils website: http://haveyoursaywollongong.com.au/proposed-upgrades-to-wongawilli-and-west-dapto-roads1