Wollondilly has received a pre-Christmas boost of almost $5.5 million from the state government.
Road reconstruction to the tune of $3 million will take place in Bargo, Appin (pictured), Menangle, Douglas Park and Oakdale.
And almost $2.5 million will go toward three community facilities: drainage and irrigation at Gordon Lewis Oval in Appin, revitalisation of the Menangle School site, and an active transport connectivity and drainage project in Bargo and Yanderra.
The funding was successfully obtained under the latest round of the NSW Government’s Resources for Regions fund.
Established in 2012, the aim of the fund is to give back to mining communities, stimulating local economies and delivering critical infrastructure.
But after several tough years that included bush fires, the pandemic and flooding rains, the Shire can do with a boost like this.
Mayor Matt Gould agrees.
“It is fantastic to receive this funding for much needed roadworks in some of our mining impacted communities,’’ he says.
“This will help with the upgrade of a number of major connecting roads in rural areas to increase width, improve drainage, and upgrade the pavement and wearing surface.
“These road upgrades will help negate the wear and tear that has been caused by the frequent use of heavy haulage trucks used by the local mining companies in these towns,’’ he said.
“Every bit helps when it comes to getting our road network up to scratch following our wettest year on record, and this is a welcome contribution.’’
Mayor Gould said it will be exciting to see community based projects come to life.
“Gordon Lewis Oval in Appin currently has poor drainage and associated issues which makes accessing the playing surface difficult.
“I look forward to seeing a smooth and level playing field in the future for the benefit of our sporting teams and other users.
“The funding will also go towards the refurbishment of the Old Menangle School Site, to revitalise this community centre, creating a space that everyone can use and enjoy.
“Footpath and intersection upgrades in the Bargo and Yanderra area will deliver increased connectivity for the local community, providing a safe active transport link that will help connect residents to the local public school and the train station.
“I would like to thank local member, Nathaniel Smith, for supporting us to receive the funding for these important projects in the Wollondilly Shire.”
