More than 200 submissions have been put forward for the proposed $76 million upgrade to Mandalong Road at Morisset.

The community and key stakeholders were invited to provide their thoughts on the preferred design for the project from 26 June to 4 August last year, with the consultation report now published.

And, the latest blueprint includes replacing the existing roundabout at the intersection of Wyee Road and Freemans Drive with traffic lights, a shared path between Ourimbah Street and Gimberts Road, as well as two new bus stops on Dora Street.

The Gimberts Road/Gateway Boulevard roundabout will be separately enhanced by a private developer.

“Upgrading Mandalong Road is the most important transport priority in southern Lake Macquarie,” Lake Macquarie MP Greg Piper said.

“Like other frustrated locals, I’ve been calling for a solution to the traffic and safety issues for years.

“With its strategic position, the Morisset area is poised to experience a surge in people, jobs, homes and industrial and commercial development.

“So, upgrading Mandalong Road, along with other infrastructure and services, will help the region realise its full potential.”

The Australian Government is investing $56 million, with its NSW counterpart contributing $20 million.

As such, the consultation report, including 190 survey responses and 12 emails, comprises feedback on the design, operational and network impacts, environmental effects, project concerns and suggestions.

“Mandalong Road provides a critical link from the M1 Pacific Motorway to Morisset and the southern part of the Lake Macquarie LGA,” Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said.

“This upgrade will improve traffic flow and safety for about 17,000 road users daily, while helping meet the future needs of an increased population and employment in the area.

“It’ll also support retail, industry, commercial and housing growth along the corridor, with potentially upwards of 5,000 new dwellings in the surrounding region.

“I was pleased to note 90% of survey respondents believe the project to be very important or important… and more than 80% supported the preferred design.”

Timing for construction is yet to be confirmed and dependent on planning approvals and the finalisation of project costings and funding arrangements.

“We’ll continue to engage with the NSW Government, key stakeholders and the community to deliver the best option for traffic and pedestrian movement in Morisset,” Hunter MP Dan Repacholi said.

“But, this upgrade will be really significant for local and visiting motorists and pedestrians in terms of safety and also minimising delays on their journeys in this part of the Lower Hunter.”