Western Sydney councils reap cash-for-roads bonanza

WESTERN Sydney councils are in line for a cash-for-roads bonanza after the Turnbull government decided they could keep money allocated to upgrade infrastructure to use for other roads if they come under budget.

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WESTERN Sydney councils are in line for a cash-for-roads bonanza after the Turnbull government decided they could keep money allocated to upgrade infrastructure to use for other roads if they come under budget.

The first council to be rewarded under the plan is Campbelltown Council, with Urban Infrastructure Minister Paul Fletcher set to announce today that it will be able to spend about $4 million of the $16 million allocated to the Eagle Vale Drive upgrade on another road project.

The Local Roads Package is part of the $3.6 billion Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan. Picture: Jonathan Ng

The Local Roads Package is part of the $3.6 billion Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan which is upgrading roads and other infrastructure across the west.

“This is another win for Western Sydney residents, businesses and motorists thanks to the Australian government’s $200 million Local Roads Package — part of our commitment to improve transport links ahead of Western Sydney Airport opening in 2026,” Mr Fletcher told The Daily Telegraph.

Urban Infrastructure Minister Paul Fletcher says the spending will be a win for western Sydney.

“I congratulate Campbelltown City Council on delivering this project under budget, resulting in Western Sydney motorists getting more bang for their buck from the Turnbull government’s investment.”

Mr Fletcher will announce the new plan with Assistant Cities Minister Angus Taylor today, with Mr Taylor overseeing the rollout of the major Cities Deal which covers eight local councils in the west.

“Campbelltown City Council suggested the reallocation and, as part of our contribution under the Western Sydney City Deal, we agreed that it made sense to reward Councils who make savings under the Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan,” Mr Taylor said.