Council endorses Roads Futures Strategy and undertakes pothole trial

PORT Stephens Council has unanimously endorsed the development of a Roads Futures Strategy to “strengthen long-term planning and deliver more resilient and sustainable local roads”.

The Strategy will outline Council’s long-term vision to support population growth, improve safety and strengthen sustainability of local roads across Port Stephens.

Port Stephens Council manages a road network of approximately 800km.

Council admits it has a growing backlog of roadworks caused by “years of limited funding, rising construction costs, and repeated damage from severe weather events”.

Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson said, “Our community has been clear in calling for better long-term planning on our roads, and that’s exactly what this strategy will deliver.

“We’re investing a record amount of funding into road upgrades and maintenance through our Roads Acceleration Program (RAP), but we know funding alone isn’t enough.”

Port Stephens Councillor Ben Niland, who put forward the motion, said the Roads Futures Strategy will bring a renewed focus on quality, consistency and accountability.

“Council uses a number of methods and funding approaches for the rehabilitation and resealing of roads, now is the time for a comprehensive network-wide review,” he said.

“This Strategy is a pivotal step in ensuring our road management is efficient, transparent and aligned with community expectations.”

This week, Council commenced a pothole trial to help identify longer lasting repair options, with results feeding into the Roads Futures Strategy.

Port Stephens Director Facilities and Infrastructure Greg Kable said the trial is to test four different pothole repair products along the high traffic routes of Lemon Tree Passage Road, Salt Ash and Medowie Road.

“We’ll be monitoring their performance over the next 12 months.

“While the upfront costs may be higher, we’re aiming to find approaches that reduce repeat repairs, ultimately saving money and reducing traffic disruptions,” Mr Kable added.

“This initiative represents our proactive approach to ongoing road maintenance challenges, ensuring residents have safe and reliable roads now and into the future.”