BREAKING! Former Paterson MP Bob Baldwin Considers Running For Mayor Of Port Stephens

 BY IAN CROUCH

A former federal member for Paterson is considering a tilt at the top job in Port Stephens.

Bob Baldwin released a statement overnight announcing he was considering running for mayor of the shire at the September 14 Local Government elections.

He says the decision of incumbent mayor, Ryan Palmer not to run again has prompted the move.

Bob Baldwin says he wants to continue the legacy Councilor Palmer and former mayor, Bruce McKenzie before him and shares their conviction that there's no place for partisan politics in local government.

Despite retiring from federal politics ahead of the 2016 election, Bob Baldwin says he still has a desire to engage with the community and lead the advocacy for the issues that matter to people and says he feels the community would benefit from his strong leadership experience after a break from public life.

He says he will canvass community support and assess local concerns in coming weeks.

Bob Baldwin

 

Westcott Street Bridge opens for public use in the Cessnock LGA

BY JORDAN REGNIS

The new $2.2 million Westcott Street Bridge has now opened in the Cessnock LGA.

The new dual lane concrete bridge includes an added pedestrian access footway, and an open load limit.

Cessnock Mayor Jay Suvaal says the bridge will "reduce annual maintenance costs by 80%".

The bridge serves around 84 businesses, which include those in healthcare, administrative services, transport and construction.

The open load limit means there are no longer restrictions on larger emergency vehicles.

Upgrades were funded under the Transport for NSW Fixing Country Bridges Program.