The Minns Labor Government is continuing to work to improve road safety by providing truck drivers in the state’s south access to upgraded rest areas as part of a statewide $11.9 million improvement initiative.
Five rest areas that cater to heavy vehicles have recently been completed at Berry Jerry rest area on the Sturt Highway, as well as Beckom, Bundure, and the Marsden northbound and southbound rest areas on the Newell Highway.
The upgrades provided solar-powered lighting for the toilet blocks and surrounds to improve safety for all users, and new picnic shelters to allow truckies to take a short break.
Transport for NSW also installed improved roadside signage at a number of service centres along the Hume, Sturt and Newell highways to assist heavy vehicle drivers to better identify rest stops.
The upgrades have been delivered as part of the governments $11.9 million Heavy Vehicle Rest Stop Minor Works Program. Earlier this year Transport also completed upgrades to Seven Trees and Curlwaa rest areas on the Silver City Highway and Bundjalung rest area on the Pacific Highway as part of the statewide program.
More information is available at www.transport.nsw.gov.au/hvrsimprovements
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
“Driver fatigue is one of the top four contributing factors to fatal crashes on NSW roads, highlighting the importance of adequate rest and rest stop facilities for all drivers.
“The Minns Labor Government is working closely with, and listening to the road freight industry, as we improve the quantity and quality of heavy vehicle rest stops.”
Independent Member for Murray Helen Dalton said:
“When our heavy vehicle drivers are safe, it contributes to safer roads for all road users.
“It’s good to see investments going to upgrade facilities for truckies in the Murray region.
“Rest areas support truck driver health, safety and wellbeing, and compliance with mandatory rest breaks for fatigue management.”
NSW Labor’s spokesperson for Cootamundra, Stephen Lawrence MLC said:
“These upgraded facilities will go a long way in supporting truck drivers to find safe and reliable areas to park, rest, and access services on what can be long trips in this part of the state.
“I’m pleased to be part of a government rolling out these investments in our regional communities.”