The $4 million project is being supported by the state government through the Hunter Infrastructure and Investment Fund (HIIF) and managed by Muswellbrook Shire Council.

Upper Hunter MP George Souris said work to reconstruct about two kilometres of the road is ready to begin once the council awards the contract, which is expected to occur at Monday night’s meeting.

“This is an important step forward for this project and I was pleased to receive this information from the Minister for Planning Pru Goward earlier today,” Mr Souris said.

“The NSW Government recognises the significance of this road to the Muswellbrook community and the regional economy.

“This $4 million project is a vital contribution to the $17 million total project cost of upgrading Thomas Mitchell Drive.

“The road reconstruction is sorely needed due to the high level of heavy vehicle traffic associated with the mines.

“It services the Mt Arthur and Drayton coal mines and as a partial town bypass for those accessing Bengalla, Mt Pleasant and Xstrata Mangoola.

“Others use the road as a more direct route between Denman and the New England Highway.

“The funding is recognition that the road was not originally designed for this level of traffic.”

Muswellbrook Shire Council will manage the delivery of the contract directly with the selected contractor.

Mr Souris said he had supported Muswellbrook council’s bid in gaining funds for the upgrade of Thomas Mitchell Drive.

“The Hunter Infrastructure and Investment Fund was a Liberal/Nationals election commitment to provide a fund of $350m for Hunter infrastructure,” he said.

“This has been delivered and the fund has received a further $100m following the successful lease of the Port of Newcastle.

“I stress that these funds are separate and in addition to the allocation of $340m out of the Port lease for the urban renewal and light rail project in Newcastle.

“The upgrade of this critical link in the local mine-affected roads network will significantly improve the safety and efficiency of the road for the mining industry and reduce the cost of long term maintenance for council and local ratepayers.”

Mr Souris said the Muswellbrook Shire area had received considerable funds both through the HIIF and the popular Resources for Regions programs.

The final Round of Resources for Regions was also currently open and applications are now being assessed by Infrastructure NSW before a short list is invited to make full submissions.

Muswellbrook and Singleton councils will be significant recipients of funds when Resources for Regions is finalised.