The State Government has confirmed it is looking into traffic solutions to solve Maitland’s peak hour gridlock and will spend more than $1million on an investigation.
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The government came under fire this week from Maitland Business Chamber who called on the State to “finish what it started” and build a west-bound flyover at Maitland Railway Station roundabout.
A spokesperson for Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) told Fairfax Media the NSW Government has allocated $1.5 million this financial year to investigate and develop traffic management solutions, such as “signalising” the Church Street roundabout, to reduce westbound congestion on the New England Highway at Maitland.
“Roads and Maritime Services will consult with the community and key stakeholders as planning progresses,” the spokesperson said.
Maitland Business Chamber said the traffic congestion has divided Maitland in two.
In a statement the chamber said the one-way east-bound flyover has failed and claimed it has compounded existing traffic snarls on the already congested Cessnock Road by adding additional lanes to the network surrounding the railway station roundabout.
Council’s Group Manager Infrastructure and Works Chris James said the RMS has undertaken traffic surveys.
“It is council’s understanding that the RMS intends to commence community consultation this year on proposals to address the issues,” Mr James said.
“The extent of works proposed is unknown but is expected to address roundabout congestion and associated flow on effects through Maitland Park and surrounding streets,” he said.
