Medlow Bath residents have expressed fears the proposed highway duplication could result in their streets becoming alternate parking and access points for visitors to the Hydro Majestic Hotel.
Residents of western Medlow Bath met at the end of Bellevue Crescent recently to discuss their concerns with Stephen Caswell, President of the Medlow Bath Action Group (MAG).
Among their concerns is that any future expansion of the hotel could see overflow parking end up in Bellevue Crescent, Delmonte Avenue and Belgravia Street, a situation exacerbated by the removal of Great Western Highway parking.
A MAG spokeswoman said the duplication will also force all Sydney-bound Hydro guests to turn left out of the Hydro.
"After turning left, drivers will then have to do U-turns either from the 'ski ramp' at Station Street or at the bus shelter on Railway Parade. This will cause inevitable congestion... risking erratic driving behaviour from frustrated motorists forced to make complicated turns."
She said Transport for NSW (TfNSW) also needs to clarify who will pay for the right-hand turn into the hotel.
"MAG is certain the Medlow Bath United service station would like to know since they will lose their right hand turn with the duplication."
TfNSW acting director west, Alistair Lunn, said the agency will continue to talk with and listen to Medlow Bath residents and the community, including stakeholders like the Hydro Majestic and United Services Station, as the project progresses.
"As part of the project development, Transport for NSW is carrying out detailed traffic modelling and a comprehensive study, as well as incorporating community feedback, to inform design and find the best solution to cater for all movements in Medlow Bath," he said.
The Gazette understands TfNSW is investigating additional commuter parking spaces on Railway Parade, near the Rural Fire Services property, as well as short term measures to improve safety at Bellevue Crescent and Foy Avenue, including road widening and turning bays.
MAG will be running more community sessions. For updates follow MAG on Facebook or email medlowbathactiongroup@gmail.com.
