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New funding welcome but more needed for Upper Hunter mining communities
The NSW Minerals Council welcomes today’s announcement from the NSW Government of funding of over $21 million for Upper Hunter infrastructure projects.
“The Upper Hunter is the engine room of the region and requires continued infrastructure investment,” Mr Galilee said today.
“The NSW Minerals Council strongly supports the provision of more public infrastructure funding for mining communities, so the announcement is very welcome news,” Mr Galilee said.
The $21.3 million in new Upper Hunter funding includes:
- $4 million for the reconstruction of Thomas Mitchell Drive in Muswellbrook
- $9.6 million for the replacement of the Muswellbrook Sewerage Treatment Plant
- $5.7 million for the refurbishment of the Singleton ‘Gym and Swim’ complex, and
- $2 million for the refurbishment of the Upper Hunter Conservatorium of Music.
“Mining is a community-based industry in NSW, and nowhere more so than the Upper Hunter. Around 1600 miners and their families live in Singleton, representing nearly a quarter of the local workforce. And Muswellbrook is home to more than 1000 miners or around 20 per cent of local workforce.”
“The projects supported today will deliver significant benefits for the important mining communities of the Upper Hunter, improving quality of life and making the region more attractive place to live, work, and raise a family,” Mr Galilee said.
“While today’s funding announcement is welcome, it shouldn’t be forgotten that of the $350 million in funding available, only $21.3m has gone to the Upper Hunter.
“Today’s announcement is a good start, and welcome recognition of the importance of the Upper Hunter, but more is needed to help the region meet its infrastructure needs,” Mr Galilee said.
Contact
: Lindsay Hermes
or 0409 758 734