The intersection has long been regarded as difficult and as a route between the wharf and the town, its upgrade was identified some time ago by council.

Ms Barnes said that the money would be good leverage for getting matching funding from the state government for the roadworks which are expected to cost in the region of $3m.

The work will prioritise the road between the wharf and the town and will include landscaping around the intersection.

In announcing the funding from the Building Better Regions Fund – Infrastructure Projects stream, Senator Jim Molan said the federal government had a really strong commitment to infrastructure.

“This is a fantastic outcome for the Bega Valley community, with the project receiving $1.6 million to upgrade key intersections and provide a dedicated freight route to the port,” Senator Molan said

“This will have major flow-on benefits across the community including improved usage of the port, which will encourage further business and job creation to the Eden community, ensuring our region will continue to thrive and prosper into the future.” 

Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government John McVeigh said the project would deliver significant economic and social benefits to the community.

The mayor Kristy McBain said council was very grateful to the federal and state government for committing fully to the wharf and wave attenuator and assisting with this important intersection. 

Council had planned to do the work on the intersection but $2m had to be put into the port redevelopment instead.

Council’s director assets and operations Anthony McMahon said that the funding deed would be prepared and that any work would be scheduled for outside of the busy summer season.