The area topped the list of most complained about roads with 95 per cent of complaints made about poor road surface and frustration of travelling along Broke, Wollombi and McDonalds road, which are part of the Wine Country area.

These three roads have become more popular in recent times as the Lower Hunter’s many vineyards tap into the lucrative tourism market and organise major music festivals such as A Day On The Green.

While busy, these roads don’t get anywhere near the traffic that travels daily across the old railway bridge that links Kurri Kurri and Weston.

This section has also become a major concern for Aaron Smith, whose home fronts Cessnock Road on a sweeping right bend near the bridge.

“My partner and I have been living in our house on Cessnock Road since November last year and I have lost count of the number of cars that have gone off the road here,” Mr Smith said yesterday. 

“I have contacted Cessnock City Council four times and asked if they might put up a safety barrier along the centre of the road, which could prevent cars swerving to the opposite side.

“Maybe this part of Cessnock Road should even be closed off. It is even worse when it rains and we hear car tyres squealing all the time.

“I believe it is extremely dangerous with passing vehicles that nearly wipe out our car, our house or others nearby.”

Mr Smith concerns are valid and this is one problem Cessnock Council could fix immediately.

Safety barriers would give residents peace of mind.