15 September 2017 – Media Release
Cumberland Council has welcomed the decision by Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) to commission a report into the Prospect Highway Corridor, which will consider reclassifying Reconciliation Drive (Prospect Highway) and Greystanes Road.
The report will explore whether the Council managed Reconciliation Drive, a heavily trafficked stretch of the Prospect Highway that leads into a bustling industrial estate, should be transferred to RMS control.
This would increase the likelihood of the road being upgraded to a dual carriageway with State funding. Under a Council led proposal, Council would then take responsibility for the nearby Greystanes Road, which is currently classified as a regional road.
Cumberland Council General Manager said the proposed RMS report was a step in the right direction.
“Reconciliation Drive is currently not fit for purpose. With a single lane going into and out of a busy industrial area, local residents too often find themselves caught between a truck and a hard place,” Mr Ryan said.
“The Greystanes area is growing; local industries are thriving. Reconciliation Drive needs to be upgraded to two lanes to support this population growth and commercial activity.
“This will make life easier for both the residents that use the road and the businesses that transit through it to their factories, warehouses and distribution centres.
“Last July Council staff and key stakeholders met with Roads and Maritime Services. In a productive meeting Council was able to lay out our case for the road swap.
“As a result RMS has given in writing their commitment to finalising a report into the Prospect Highway Corridor, which will include consideration of reclassifying Reconciliation Drive and Greystanes Road.
“We hope that the draft report, to be completed in November, will recommend the reclassification of both roads.
“This would deliver the best outcome to local residents and the two tiers of state and local government that serve them.”
