$5m to seal part of Kempsey-Armidale Rd

It is one of a number of significant grants announced by the Federal and State governments through the accelerated Fixing Local Roads program to improve local roads and create thousands of local jobs in the regions.

Locally:

Local Federal MP and Kempsey raised Pat Conaghan said roads are crucial to the connectivity of regional communities, and the latest round of Fixing Local Roads funding would help councils tackle the increasing amount of work required to provide safer roads for their communities.

"With more than $7.6 million being allocated to projects within the Cowper electorate, it is pleasing to see the ongoing commitment and partnership between the Australian and NSW Government in looking after and improving our regional roads," Mr Conaghan said.

Local State MP Melinda Pavey said Fixing Local Roads would help councils repair, maintain and seal the roads that 'really mattered' to communities.

"The four local councils received a total of $8,445,777 to improve our road network - this just won't just ease the burden of maintenance for local councils, but it will deliver safer, more reliable journeys for all local road users," Ms Pavey said.

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack - who was in Kempsey just this week - said Round 2 of the Fixing Local Roads Program would fund more than 100 new road upgrades across the State, creating more than 1000 jobs.

"By improving roads, we are making a big difference to people's lives in ensuring they get home sooner and safer," Mr McCormack said.

"We know improved roads are crucial to regional communities and the successful road projects will play a big role in helping residents and businesses recover from the effects of bushfires, drought, floods and the COVID-19 pandemic."

Round 1 of the Fixing Local Roads Program saw $243.6 million of joint funding allocated to 253 projects in 83 Local Government Areas, and Round 2 will see $150 million allocated to more than 100 road projects in 90 Local Government Areas.

All successful projects will be completed within two years to ensure local communities see the benefits as quickly as possible.

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