Residents are demanding action on Oyster Cove Road’s potholes

PORT Stephens residents are once again voicing their concerns about hazardous road conditions.

Oyster Cove Road has been a recent source of frustration, with potholes covering the full length of the road.

“Road repairs are needed everywhere,” a spokesperson for Port Stephens Council said.

“We have specific criteria for determining the risk associated with each pothole, which include factors such as traffic volume and whether the pothole is located in the middle of the road, to the side, and so on.

“We always try to get to the most dangerous potholes first.”

In 2023, Port Stephens received $10 million from the state government for road upgrades – the largest amount of funding it has received.

But it doesn’t feel like enough for frustrated locals who are voicing concerns about the lack of results.

“Oyster Cove Road has been in this condition for some weeks now,” Resident Don Legge said.

“[It] is becoming very dangerous to drive on.”

The Council said it is all they can do at the moment with the funding and crews they have.”

In response to concerns, Mayor Leah Anderson said, “We are experiencing ongoing challenges with our roads right across Port Stephens.”

“We are continuing to work with the state government in assessing natural disaster funding available.”

Cr Anderson attended the Australian Local Government Conference in Canberra this year to advocate for further assistance and funding.

“It’s my job as Mayor to keep advocating for Port Stephens and I know that there are a lot of constraints for everyone.

“I want to ensure [everyone] that I have explored every avenue of support for our community.”

By Cosette DE LORENZO