The New South Wales government has taken another step towards building a purpose-built heavy vehicle rest area in Western Sydney for truck drivers.
Tenders are now open for pre-qualified design consultants to shape the new rest area near the intersection of Archbold and Old Wallgrove roads.
The proposed site is strategically positioned close to logistics hubs like the new Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport, Erskine Park and Marsden Park along the M7 corridor.
Currently there are limited rest areas for truck drivers between Pheasants Nest to the south of Sydney and Wyong to the north – a distance of 180 kilometres and nearly two hours driving.
Design consultants are invited through to December 15 to tender for the design of the rest area, with Transport for NSW working with the industry to find a number of solutions to ease the burden on drivers needing the rest.
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These include upgraded facilities at the Partridge VC rest area near Camden and expanded facilities being built at the twin highway service centre along the M4 at Eastern Creek.
The designs for the Archbold Road site will be guided by feedback from when industry was consulted in 2023. That consultation sought the views of more than 800 drivers on what they needed to better support their rest breaks in Western Sydney.
TfNSW says safety, security and driver comfort will be central to the concept design. This includes well-lit areas for security, CCTV surveillance and consideration for the specific needs of women drivers.
The body says the rest area should include flushing toilets, clean drinking water, hot showers, shaded areas, ample parking with secluded bays for sleeping and space for potential food options.
The new rest stop is part of an $80 million jointly funded commitment by the Australian and NSW governments.
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