Tanya Davies, Member for Badgerys Creek, has expressed her profound disappointment and concern over the recent budgetary decision by the Minns Labor Government to cancel the crucial safety upgrade to Elizabeth Drive.
Under the previous Liberal Government, $200 million was dedicated through WestInvest for safety improvements on Elizabeth Drive between Devonshire Road and Western Road. In a startling reversal of priorities, the Minns Labor Government has slashed this funding and redirected a mere $10 million to “investigate” potential enhancements on the stretch between the M7 Motorway in Cecil Hills and The Northern Road at Luddenham.
Mrs Davies commented, “It’s incredibly disheartening to witness such a vital safety project being sidelined. The Minns Government appears more willing to risk lives than to confront the challenge of funding a road upgrade that will not only save lives but also significantly benefit the future of Western Sydney.”
Adding to the situation, Transport for NSW (TfNSW) is currently inviting feedback on the Review of Environmental Factors (REF) for Elizabeth Drive. These REFs detail the features of the proposed design, assessing potential environmental impacts anticipated during construction and operation. TfNSW also acknowledges that there is no funding allocated for this project to progress beyond the planning stage.
The community has until 31 October 2023 to offer their insights on these REFs.
“I urge the residents of Western Sydney to voice their concerns,” Mrs Davies added. “This is a golden opportunity to hold the government to account for its decisions.”
Residents can submit their feedback to Transport for NSW by:
- 📞 Phone: 1800 865 303
- ✉️ Email: elizabethdrive@transport.nsw.gov.au
- 🌐 Online: nswroads.work/elizabethdrive