Broke-Road

Australia’s New South Wales (NSW) Government has announced a investment of A$16.7m ($13m) under its Resources for Regions programme for the Hermitage and Broke Roads upgrade in the Hunter’s wine country region.

Spanning across two local government areas, the project will be implemented in collaboration between Singleton and Cessnock councils.

As part of the project, new tourist facilities will be installed such as signage, rest areas, and safety and way-finding lighting. An on-road cycleway will also be constructed to connect the Hunter Expressway/New England Highway with Broke Road.

The project scope within the Singleton local government area (LGA) includes upgrade of 10.6km of Hermitage Road and addressing safety of intersections.

"It provides access for residents, workers and visitors between Singleton and Cessnock and is a key location for tourism and accommodation providers contributing to Hunter Valley Wine Country."

Within the Cessnock LGA, the project scope includes modernisation of 1.4km of Hermitage Road and 1.1km of Broke Road, besides upgrade of intersection of Broke/Hermitage Road.

An on-road cycleway connecting the Cessnock/Singleton sections will also be built and tourist facilities, including signage and rest areas will be installed.

Singleton council general manager Lindy Hyam said Hermitage Raod is a vital transport link between Broke Road and the Hunter Expressway.

"It provides access for residents, workers and visitors between Singleton and Cessnock and is a key location for tourism and accommodation providers contributing to Hunter Valley Wine Country," Hyam said.

"Providing adequate road and cycleway infrastructure will support growth in visitor numbers across the region and put our region on par with the famous wine country regions of France."

Broke and Hermitage roads are used by mining-related traffic, specifically to access mines in the region.

The latest upgrade project is expected to improve access and safety for cars and bicycles and lift the local amenity.

Singleton and Cessnock councils will establish a project control group soon in a bid to begin preparation of tender documentation for survey and design of the project.

Image: Aerial view of Hunter Valley Wine Country. Photo: courtesy of Cessnock City Council.