Port Macquarie-Hastings residents are invited to a community information session on the Oxley Highway upgrade between Wrights Road and the Pacific Highway.

Independent Member for Port Macquarie, Peter Besseling, said the public forums gave locals the chance to discuss the highway infrastructure works with the RTA project team and the contractor, BMD Constructions.

“The latest information session will be held next Wednesday and will provide residents with the opportunity to ask questions about the upgrade works and to raise any concerns they might have,” Mr Besseling said.

“About 14,000 motorists use the Oxley Highway every day, and no doubt every single one of them will be pleased to see the six-kilometre, divided dual carriageway completed by the end of next year.

“We’ve seen the earthworks giving shape and scale to the new highway over the past eight months, and a second crossover bridge under construction near Phillip Charley Drive.

“Planning is now underway to install a concrete plant, adjacent to Lindfield Park Road, which will produce the concrete needed for the length of the upgrade.

“The Oxley Highway re-alignment will improve road safety, shorten travel times between Port and Wauchope and provide a fitting gateway to the largest and most robust population base on the NSW north coast.

“In the meantime, the community forums, which are held every four to six months, are the perfect vehicle by which the public can access information and highlight issues associated with this $158 million project,” Mr Besseling said.

The next information session will be held on Wednesday, August 18, at Port Macquarie Panthers Club from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Anyone interested in attending must register by phoning the toll-free number 1800 784 339.

For further information please visit www.rta.nsw.gov.au