State Member for Wallsend, Ms Sonia Hornery MP, has today welcomed the changes announced for Stage 5 of the Newcastle Inner City Bypass.
Late yesterday, the RMS released an update on the plans for Stage 5 following feedback and submissions from Ms Hornery and local residents.
The changes include the complete Interchange for the John Hunter Hospital second entrance and improvements to the shared pathway at the Jesmond end of the Bypass.
Quotes attributable to Member for Wallsend, Sonia Hornery
“These changes are very welcome and show that the RMS and the Minister for Roads have listened to the feedback given in submissions last year.”
“The changes to the shared bike and pedestrian pathway at the Jesmond end of the Bypass will allow cyclists and pedestrians a continuous journey. This previously would have seen the need to cross four sets of traffic lights.”
“The John Hunter Hospital is a key hub for the Wallsend electorate but the traffic around there is a nightmare. A full interchange as part of Stage 5 was the best solution to this mounting crisis.”
“Staff, patients and visitors to the John Hunter Hospital have been calling out for relief from the gridlock for long enough.”
“The RMS will now prepare the submissions report and preferred infrastructure report for lodgement to the Department of Planning and Environment and this is expected to be finalised by the middle of the year.”
“Then the detailed design for early work packages, including the shared path bridge over Newcastle Road and the detailed design for the main Bypass work can be finalised.”
“I am glad that the Government has listened to us and is moving ahead with Stage 5 of the Newcastle Inner City Bypass.”