In a rare show of unity Hawkesbury City Councillors have unanimously opposed the NSW Government's proposed Richmond Bridge duplication project design, echoing widespread community concerns about its potential negative impacts on local communities and the Hawkesbury River floodplain. During a recent council meeting, councillors criticised the project's design, funding shortfalls, and potential threats to heritage sites, arguing that the current proposal fails to provide adequate flood immunity or traffic relief.

The discussion took place at Council’s monthly meeting where councillors were considering Council’s submission about the project to Transport for NSW during the community consultation period, which has now closed.

Councillors expressed particular concern over the plan to construct a four-lane bridge with two-lane approaches, warning that this configuration could create traffic bottlenecks rather than alleviate congestion. The proposed removal of roadside parking on Bells Line of Road at North Richmond and the introduction of traffic lights at the intersection of Kurrajong Road, Yarramundi Lane, and Old Kurrajong Road - instead of a flyover -were also points of contention. Additionally, the omission of an upgrade to Redbank Creek Bridge on Bells Line of Road was highlighted as a significant oversight.

Funding emerged as a critical issue, with councillors condemning the state's failure to secure full financing for the project. The current plan would divert bypass traffic through existing roads in Hobartville, particularly Southee Road, until additional funds are obtained, raising concerns about increased noise and traffic for local residents. Moreover, the proposal to build a bridge and elevated road sections without comprehensive modeling of potential flood impacts on nearby properties and the broader floodplain has alarmed both officials and community members.

The proposed route via Inalls Lane and Southee Road has faced opposition due to anticipated noise, increased traffic, and threats to numerous heritage sites, including the Macquarie-era cultural landscape and the State Heritage-listed Hobartville Stud and St Peter's Church Group. Councillor Mary Lyons-Buckett, who introduced the motion, echoed the community's frustration. “We are talking about a major exit route out of Sydney to the west and we require an outcome in line with its importance, which is complete and adequately funded to deliver a viable project to improve traffic congestion and improve flood immunity,” Clr Lyons Buckett said.

“Here we have a proposal, incomplete in its capacity to be delivered in its entirety about which there is a broad range of concerns. We don’t want to see a half-baked project proceed.

“We need a solution that is for the future. We don’t want nor do we deserve a second-rate solution in the Hawkesbury,” she said.

Mayor Les Sheather urged the community to get involved: “We will do our best as a Council to get the best outcome. I would suggest to the community, if you have concerns then write your submissions in. Council can’t do this on its own, and submissions from the community will make a big difference,” Clr. Shealther said.