Member for Penrith Karyn Paluzzano opposed the “eyesore” and was pleased to announce last week the project would not go ahead.

“The whole idea was just nonsense and totally inappropriate for the area,” said Ms Paluzzano.

“This is a win for the local community who clearly were against the proposed advertising billboard.”

Ms Paluzzano had contacted Transport Minister David Campbell to relay the strong views of her constituents.

While the project was subject to Department of Planning approval, the RTA decided to withdraw its plans following the community outcry.

Penrith mayor Kevin Crameri joined the chorus of criticism.

“We didn’t want to see it spoil the beauty of the Mountains,” he said. “(The RTA) need to wake up to themselves. They’ll do anything for money at the moment.”

Since the arch was to act as a gateway to the region, Blue Mountains council also registered its displeasure despite the planned structure being located in Penrith’s jurisdiction.

Ward 4 councillor Mark Greenhill called the plans “trashy” and “hideous” when they first came to light. He was relieved to hear of the RTA reversal.

“This is a victory for good taste,” he said. “(It) will avoid the optical offence that would have been presented by what had been proposed.”

As well as providing advertising space, the free-standing structure would have carried messages welcoming westbound traffic to the Mountains and eastbound travellers to Sydney.