The Ellerton Drive extension looks to have hit a snag before construction has even begun.
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The project timeline appears to have blown out a year from early estimates.
Residents in the surrounding area received a letter last week providing information about the project, including an expected completion date in mid-2020 weather permitting.
In September Deputy Premier John Barilaro announced a tender had been awarded for the road, construction would commence in October and the expected completion was late 2019.
Previous releases said the project would be a two year build and was expected to commence in mid-2017.
A spokeswoman for Roads and Maritime Services said the 2020 date represented a weather contingency.
Labor candidate for Monaro Bryce Wilson does not endorse the EDE but said the delay was another example of the NSW government failing regional areas.
“Put the merits of the project aside because it’s been decided now,” he said.
“It’s another example of this government not having its priorities or focus in regional areas.
“You look at the Tompsitt and Lanyon Drive roundabout, the police station and now Ellerton Drive and it’s another slippage in delivery.”
“This is what happens when RMS and everyone else are focused on WestConnex and those big Sydney projects.”
Responding to these criticisms Mr Barilaro said this was an example of Labor playing politics and blamed them and the Greens for the EDE delays.
“Labor and the Greens have spent the past three years frustrating efforts to build the Ellerton Drive extension,” he said.
“They’re choosing now to play politics with this piece of supported roads infrastructure.
“The 2017 budget proves that the NSW Liberals and Nationals government is, and always will be, committed to delivering to Regional NSW, such as the $70 million package for our local roads network.”
Mr Wilson said irrespective of political motivations the longer construction would have serious consequences for motorists as Googong and Jerrabomberra continued to grow.
He also said the government should make it clear if any provisions existed in the contract for a prolonged build and what effect this would have on the budget.
According to RMS construction will begin in the coming weeks and the first step would be the installation of noise barriers. Residents were also advised WBHO contractors could need access to their properties to conduct assessments.
Work is planned to occur between 7am and 6pm on weekdays and 8am and 1pm on Saturdays. No work will take place on Sundays or public holidays.