The NSW government announced the vital link between the Bells Line of Road at Kurrajong and the M7 Motorway would be preserved for future plans.

“Securing the corridor for the future Castlereagh Connection means motorists travelling on the Bells Line of Road now have the certainty that future upgrades on this important east-west corridor will be delivered,” Roads Minister Melinda Pavey said.

“This connection will improve integration to the planned Outer Sydney Orbital network and the M4, creating a smoother, more reliable journey and reducing pressure on major arterial roads like The Northern Road.”

Government MPs from Central West electorates including Bathurst MP Paul Toole, Dubbo MP Troy Grant and Parliamentary Secretary for Western NSW Rick Colless have welcomed the move.

“Securing this corridor reinforces that only the Liberals and Nationals Government can deliver future upgrades, to increase capacity and improve freight access,” Mr Toole said.

His comments come a week after Opposition Leader Luke Foley said neither side of politics would build a Bells Line Expressway.

Mr Grant said the government had tripled the budget for road infrastructure in the Central West in the last six years.

“We have completed over 80 major road infrastructure projects in the last six years and invested over $380 million in the regions, boosting productivity for freight and logistics and boosting local jobs,” Mr Grant said.

Mr Colless said the region would benefit from better road connections to Sydney under corridor reservation plans released on Monday for public consultation.

“Community members are invited to have a say on the proposed recommended corridors at transport.nsw.gov.au/corridors and help shape this exciting future corridor for our state.”