The federal government last week announced that works to be undertaken on north-east freight roads would include Emily and Edward streets, as well as Waterhouse Road, to the east of Bridport.

The federal government has committed $34 million to the works and the state government, $8.5 million.

Although the primary aim was to boost road safety in the north east, a follow-on effect would be seen by Richard Sattler’s sand dune extraction venture near Barnbougle.

Earlier this year, Mr Sattler said his proposed venture would see unwanted sand removed from north-eastern farms and shipped to Sydney where there was a need for it.

Infrastructure Minister Rene Hidding said the project was about enhancing efficiency.

``This region caters for substantial agricultural traffic so these works are vital to improving the safety and productivity performance of the road network,'' he said.

The works are expected to start early next year and be completed by May 2016.