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Concerns about road safety along Bells Line of Road continue following the quiet closure of a former informal truck rest area, with Transport for NSW and Hawkesbury City Council clarifying their roles in the decision.
Transport for NSW confirmed the land off Bells Line of Road is owned and maintained by Hawkesbury City Council and said the site was blocked off by Council due to ongoing safety and cost concerns.
“The land in question off Bells Line of Road is owned and maintained by Hawkesbury City Council,” a Transport for NSW spokesperson said. “Transport for NSW understands Council has blocked off this area due to safety and cost concerns around illegal dumping and antisocial behaviour.”
The spokesperson said Transport for NSW recently covered signage that had indicated the area was available as a rest stop in order to reduce confusion for motorists and improve safety.
“To reduce confusion and ensure safety for road users, Transport recently covered up the sign indicating the availability of this location as a rest area,” the spokesperson said.
The closure has raised concerns among truck drivers and local residents, who say the loss of a stopping point along the steep and winding mountain route increases fatigue risks for heavy vehicle operators.
Transport for NSW said future options are still being considered as part of broader upgrade works along the corridor.
“Transport is continuing to explore options for a future rest area in this location as part of planning work on the Bells Line of Road Safety Improvements upgrade,” the spokesperson said. “As part of the ongoing planning for the Bells Line of Road upgrade, Transport will collaborate with Hawkesbury Council during any development stages.”
In the longer term, the NSW Government has committed to delivering a major heavy vehicle rest facility elsewhere in Western Sydney.
“The NSW Government has also committed to developing a safe, modern and centralised Western Sydney heavy vehicle rest area near the junction of the M7 and M4,” the spokesperson said.
However, some drivers argue that while the proposed Western Sydney facility is welcome, it does little to address immediate safety concerns for those regularly using Bells Line of Road, particularly at night or during long-haul trips.
The issue is expected to remain a point of discussion as planning for the Bells Line of Road safety upgrades continues.
