Letters to editor: Is there still a case for a second crossing?

A revised economic benefit study recently completed for council indicates that the $55 million bridge would deliver a cost/benefit ration of 3.92, meaning an economic benefit of nearly four times the investment.

Traffic studies from the bypass investigations apparently found that the capacity of the current bridge will be exceeded within a decade.

However the report of the consultants (2017) indicates that traffic movements and volumes through Kempsey have changed considerably and as a result, a review of the assumptions of the traffic as well as social benefits of a second bridge is required.

Has there been an official traffic count carried out on Macleay Valley Way since 2013?

We continue to see business premises close.

Will these important issues be the subject of community consultation?

The road upgrade for the additional bridge will have traffic diverted at the corner of Macleay Valley Way and South St, then via Queen and Druitt streets, landing at River St, West Kempsey.

When consideration is given to the fact that the majority of local household shopping is carried out within the Kempsey CBD, the distance travelled via the proposed bridge to a central point (corner of Belgrave and Stuart streets) will be just 200-300 metres shorter than the current Macleay Valley Way.

Why do we need another river crossing at Kempsey?

NSW Farmers’ Association welcomes the Emergency Drought Relief Package announced by the NSW Government.

The additional $500 million in support is ‘generous’ but I must stress the importance of the package being easily accessible to all farmers across the Sstate battling drought.

The expansion of the drought transport subsidies to cover a range of transport activities recognises that good animal welfare practice covers a variety of activities and requires long-term planning.

The decision to provide back payments to January 1 recognises that planning for drought happens before the country is dry.

It's not only the big costs that affect farm business cash flow. It is the small, ongoing commitments that add up.

The commitment to provide relief through deferring LLS rate payments, water licences and Agricultural Vehicle Registration will benefit local communities and contractors, not only farmers.

NSW Farmers has been a strong advocate for the farm Innovation Fund. It has helped farmers to prepare for drought.

Through the cessation of interest payments on existing loans, as well as future loans, the Government has recognised that there is only so much you can do to prepare.

As farmers continue to make tough decisions, we call on the NSW Government to make it equitable and as easy as possible for them to access relief.

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