The Nationals pledge investment for Parkes CBD gateway
Published on 16 April 2025
Nationals Candidate for Parkes, Jamie Chaffey, has announced a future Coalition Government will provide funding for the Westconnex Entry project to create an inviting entry into the town of Parkes.
Mr Chaffey said if he’s elected, and The Nationals help form government at the forthcoming election, $465,000 will be provided for effective signage to encourage travellers to visit Parkes and create an attractive entry into town from the newly completed $187.2 million Newell Highway Bypass.
“Alot of work has already gone into this space, and I’m proud that this pledge will build on that and help to mitigate any impacts the CBD and local businesses may feel from the Bypass. It’s important that as people are travelling through Parkes, that they are encouraged to stop, and spend their hard-earned dollars in town,” Mr Chaffey said.
“I believe in this project, the Council believes in this project and The National Party believes in this project and wants to see investment continue in Parkes. This is my commitment, and The Nationals commitment to the Parkes Shire, because we believe in regional communities and want to support projects that will make Parkes an even better place to live.”
The Federally Funded Parkes Newell Highway Bypass is connecting the Parkes Special Activation Precinct and other major developments to the Parkes urban area, making it worthwhile for travelers to turn off the Highway.
Parkes Shire Council is also contributing $1 million for the upgrades, bringing the total combined investment in the project to $1,465,000. Parkes Shire Council Mayor Neil Westcott said Parkes Shire welcomes this commitment from Nationals Candidate Jamie Chaffey as an acknowledgement of necessary change and adaptation required with opening of the Parkes Bypass.
“Encouraging travellers to make Parkes their destination well ahead of arrival, as well as a spontaneous decision, will be enhanced by modern signage and street beautification already observed in the PSC Entry Masterplan. Thank you, Jamie Chaffey, for this commitment.