GETTING out of Lorne Street onto Maitland Street - which is, of course, also the New England Highway - has long been a pain for members of the Muswellbrook community.
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But, the intersection could be about to undergo a major redevelopment, which would see signalised lights installed in order to improve safety and traffic flow.
With the highway being a state-managed road, Transport For NSW (formerly Roads and Maritime Services) has made the proposal, and residents can expect to see works completed by June 30 should no setbacks take place.
Muswellbrook Shire Council (MSC) was made aware of the government's plans in November last year, although stated the corner was on their radar prior to that.
"Council has had some safety issues there, and the great benefit of these traffic lights is providing improved pedestrian access to the aquatic centre and the Olympic Park precinct," councils director of community infrastructure Derek Finnigan said.
Transport For NSW is currently working on the concept design, with drawings having been presented to MSC at its meeting in December.
The proposed change would see four sets of traffic lights on a 1.9 kilometre stretch between the Sydney Street and Maitland Street, and Rutherford Road and Maitland Street intersections.
However, Mr Finnigan said the issue had been brought up - and measures will be put in place to avoid any complications.
"That's something we've raised with Transport For NSW... [but] the staging and timing of the lights will be such so that it facilities improved traffic flow," he revealed.
"The traffic will be improved and not allow for queuing."