Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor and Member for Burrinjuck Katrina Hodgkinson today called for community input on the Barton Highway Improvement Strategy.

Mr Taylor said a comprehensive plan, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments, was now being prepared for the staged duplication of the road.

“Consultation with local communities and stakeholders forms a key part of the strategy. I strongly urge anyone interested in the future of the highway to provide their feedback:

·         Complete a quick online survey http://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/roadprojects/projects/south_western_region/barton_highway/

• Email bartonimprovement@cardno.com.au
• Call 1800 765 654 (toll free)
• Write to Barton Highway Improvement Strategy, PO Box 16, St Leonards NSW 1590.

“The online survey invites people to nominate their greatest areas of concern about the Barton Highway – road safety, fewer traffic delays, quicker travel times, more consistent travel times. There’s the ability to offer feedback on individual sections of the highway and suggestions on road improvements,” Mr Taylor said.

Ms Hodgkinson said the community was being openly encouraged to join the planning discussion.

“Advertisements are being placed in local newspapers inviting community input and postcards are being sent to all businesses and households in the Yass, Murrumbateman and Hall districts. Postcards will also be delivered to local MPs, councils and tourism offices.   

“There will be further opportunities for public feedback via community workshops and community drop in sessions in coming weeks. This is an important stage in the development of the strategy, so that community issues and considerations are given priority.”

Community feedback is being invited through until 5pm, Friday 26 September 2014. The Barton Highway Improvement Strategy is expected to be completed later this year.