Digital strategy
PENRITH must properly plan for the opportunities presented by the National Broadband Network's early rollout to the region, Penrith councillors said last week.
The council unanimously adopted its Digital Economy Strategy.
A working party will investigate the best ways for local businesses and organisations to use the rapid broadband connections.
The University of Western Sydney, the Penrith Chamber of Commerce, the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District and other agencies have already expressed interest.
"I see it as increasing job opportunities in the region," Penrith deputy mayor Ross Fowler told the council meeting.
Cr John Thain said the council should proceed immediately.
"We are one of the first areas to get the NBN rollout, Cr Thain said.
"It would be wise to go down this road as soon as possible because it will create a lot of jobs in Penrith."
Cr Jim Aitken said the beauty of National Broadband Network was its ability to connect the digital economy to almost anywhere in Australia.
Road design stage
State MPs Tanya Davies, Bart Bassett and Stuart Ayres announced Hyder Consulting as the successful tenderer to design for stage one of the Werrington Arterial Road at Claremont Meadows.
The federal government will contribute $7 million towards the project and the state government the balance.
Stage one covers east-facing ramps to the M4 at Claremont Meadows and widening the Kent Road/Gipps Street corridor to four lanes.
"The proposal also includes upgrading three intersections with traffic lights, new line markings on the Kent Road Bridge, a new shared pathway, and a shared path bridge over the M4 for cyclists and pedestrians," Mr Ayres said.
Feedback for the concept design and Review of Environmental Factors closed this month. Roads and Maritime Services is now reviewing all feedback received and will deliver a report in May 2013.
Banking trainee
Kiara Bloxsome has secured a school-based traineeship with NAB St Marys for 2013.
She will join 60 other trainees nationally to form a new generation of indigenous employees in the banking industry.