Construction of the $7 million Singleton Town Centre Upgrade - Stage 2 is officially underway, after the Member for Upper Hunter Michael Johnsen MP and Mayor of Singleton, Cr Sue Moore led a sod-turning ceremony today to mark the start of works.
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The long-awaited project will continue the modernisation of John Street and Ryan Avenue that was completed in 2016, focusing on John Street from the Ryan Avenue intersection north to Campbell Street, and Campbell Street to the New England Highway.
Council appointed Robson Civil as the principal contractor with construction expected to continue for up to 12 months, weather permitting.
The project is funded by $3.5 million from the NSW Government's Resources for Regions program and the remainder by Singleton Council.
The works will enhance the entry point to the town centre on Campbell Street as well as improve in traffic flows and pedestrian connectivity, with works including new footpaths, kerbs and gutters, underground power, landscaping and irrigation works, new street lights, furniture and signs, and the realignment of the intersection of John and Elizabeth streets.
Mr Johnsen said this funding from Resources for Regions demonstrates the Nationals in Government's commitment to Singleton and wider regional NSW, ensuring jobs growth and better lifestyles in our local communities.
"Mining towns like Singleton contribute greatly to the NSW economy, so it is great to see that Resources for Regions has delivered for the local community with the funding for this important civic project," he said.
Cr Moore said it was fantastic that work was finally underway.
"This is a project that will have a tremendous impact on the vibrancy of our town, building on our Town Centre as a regional destination for people to shop, eat and meet," she said.
"Stage two will extend the modernisation of John Street and create greater pedestrian connectivity between Bailey Union Park and the award-winning Riverside Park and encourage motorists on the New England Highway to come into the town centre from Campbell Street.
"This section of the town centre also has particular significance as the area where Benjamin Singleton established his inn, which is timely as we mark the bicentenary of the European discovery of the Singleton local government area this year.
"But as well as the social significance, there will also be a boost for our local economy as the Town Centre becomes even more attractive to visit and do business, and during construction with workers onsite looking to local businesses for lunch or a coffee."
Robson Civil Project Manager Brent Matthews said a major focus of the works was minimising the impact on businesses and motorists during construction.
Regular updates will be provided to businesses, property owners and the community throughout the duration of the project.
"A major focus during the construction phase is the impact on businesses and motorists, and we are doing everything possible to minimise any disruption and to keep everyone informed about what is happening on site," he said.
"Robson Civil is very experienced in these kinds of projects, and we have set up a 24 hour enquiry line to respond to any questions or concerns from the community.
"We're also very mindful of our contribution to the local economy during the works, particularly through opportunities to engage local suppliers and support local businesses."
The 24 hour enquiry line can be reached on 0401 096 484 or email singletontc@robsoncivil.com.au
Most construction activity occurs from 6am to 6pm Monday to Friday, and Saturday from 8am to 3pm (weather permitting). Updates on the project, including any variances in these times will be notified to businesses and on Council's website and Facebook page.
