RIXS CREEK REST AREA UPGRADE COMPLETED

09 February 2013

Motorists travelling along the New England Highway can stop and stretch their legs at a new rest area at Rixs Creek, just west of Singleton.

The existing southbound rest area has been moved about 1.3 kilometres to the east to Rixs Creek Lane to improve access for motorists, Member for Hunter, Joel Fitzgibbon said.

At times motorists were unable to use the existing rest area due to blasting at a nearby mine.

The new rest area provides room for up to three caravans and ten light vehicles, and motorists can now stop and rest at any time in a safe area with modern amenities including toilets, picnic facilities and night lighting.

"Six parking spaces for heavy vehicles up to 19 metres in length are available which also provides heavy vehicle drivers with the opportunity to stop and rest in a safe area with modern facilities.

"The site was identified for upgrade as part of the RMS Strategy for Major Heavy Rest Areas in NSW in consultation with the heavy vehicle industry and in compliance with the National Transport Commissions (NTC) Guidelines.

The $2.7 million NSW and Federal Government funded upgrade is part of the $70 million provided by the Rudd Labor Government under Rounds 1 and 2 of the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program from 2008-09 to 2011-12.

The Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program provides heavy vehicle drivers with more opportunities to get the rest they need, which in turn makes the roads safer for everyone.

"Providing improved rest areas is a priority for Labor and improves safety for all road users, said Mr Fitzgibbon.