The Golden Highway is expected to play a critical path to net zero ambitions, according to NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison.
Detailed maps outlining the 19 arterial upgrades, which will pave the way from the Port of Newcastle (PoN) to the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), have been unveiled this week.
The specific locations were identified as “pinch points” along the Golden Highway between the PoN and Elong Elong, as well as a section of the Castlereagh Highway.
Thoroughfares included John Renshaw Drive (Buchanan), New England Highway (Whittingham) and Jerrys Plains Road (Mount Thorley), to name a few sites.
The Port to REZ enhancements will be funded by the Australian and NSW governments, with $128.5 million announced towards 320 kilometres of road upgrades and ancillary works.
They’ll enable the transportation of wind turbines and other crucial components needed for wind and solar farms and the transmission network, which connects them.
“Transport for NSW (TfNSW) is supporting the eight councils along the route with resources and information to help guide them in the rollout of the REZ in preparation for new wind and solar power operations,” Ms Aitchison said.
“We’re working closely with councils who are the local road authorities in their respective areas, responsible for the management of local road networks, including road safety, road funding, road maintenance and heavy vehicle access.”
Additionally, TfNSW and the Energy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo) are liaising to deliver the improved roads, ensuring they can comfortably accommodate transportation of materials required.
“As the REZ progresses, we’re working to ensure local infrastructure, such as roads, are in a good enough state to accommodate extra demands,” Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said.
“This is part of our commitment to the long-term prosperity of communities hosting Renewable Energy Zones as we continue the transformation of our state’s energy system.”
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