DELAYS in the opening of the redeveloped Catlex service station site, just to the north west of town, are being blamed on the Roads and Maritime Services (RMS).
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The site located on the New England Highway at the “hilltop” was ready to open six weeks ago but Caltex Australia say they have not been able to do so because they are still waiting for RMS approvals.
Now owned and operated by Caltex Australia, the popular site has undergone a major transformation involving an increase in size and a new layout.
Caltex said they planned this work well in advance so as to minimise any inconvenience to customers.
“Singleton Council approvals were received back in November 2012 and we scheduled the work for 2013,” their spokesman said.
“Unfortunately, the RMS approvals process has taken considerably longer than anticipated.
“This is not typical for similar developments Caltex has carried out elsewhere in Australia.
“Caltex has continued to adapt its plans in response to changes required by RMS.
“The site has been ready to open for the past six weeks.
“However, we cannot resume operating until the necessary council and RMS approvals are received.”
The delay in opening has forced the company to depose of food goods that were bought for the opening and have now passed their use-by date.
Caltex told The Argus the delay is disappointing, particularly as it has meant its Singleton employees have been out of work over the Christmas period and the customers, many travelling long distances along the New England Highway, have had to refill and take a break elsewhere.
“We look forward to the processing of the necessary paperwork so we can resume operating and begin making a contribution to the local economy,” the spokesman said.
“The redeveloped site will offer customers a broader range of fuels and convenience products.
“The layout allows Caltex to offer most available fuels in each lane – this will minimise queuing for our customers, with a wide range of products at all filling positions.”