We have today won a guarantee from the NSW Roads Minister Melinda Pavey that there will be no extension of clearway periods on King Street Newtown as a consequence of the WestConnex project.
In recent weeks local businesses have become alarmed by suggestions that weekend clearways could be imposed on King Street as a result of overflow traffic caused by Stage 2 of the project.
Following our representations to Minister Pavey on behalf of the Newtown Precinct Business Association, the Minister met yesterday with the Chamber and recommitted the Government to protecting King Street from any extension of clearways.
Having previously won a guarantee from the former Roads Minister, Duncan Gay and senior managers overseeing the WestConnex project, Labor welcomes this assurance.

Comments attributable to Tanya Plibersek:
The guarantee not to extend clearways along King Street is a real win for our community.
It will keep Newtown accessible for local residents, and as an appealing destination for visitors  – so important for the local economy.
Congratulations to the Newtown Business Chamber for their continued hard work on this issue.

Comments attributable to Anthony Albanese:
Newtown is second only to the central business district of Sydney as a tourism destination so the economic viability of King Street is crucial for our whole City.
Extending clearways would deprive Newtown of the on street parking and the protective barrier for pedestrians which cafes, restaurants, music venues and craft breweries depend on to drive their trade.
We have delivered these protections because we are determined to protect Newtown’s unique atmosphere for the people who live and there and for everyone who visits Newtown from across Sydney and around the world.

ENDS