Bathurst was allocated a total of $31.6 million for the 2008-09 Budget, which was handed down yesterday by NSW Treasurer Michael Costa.

“I’m reasonably happy with this year’s budget. We haven’t had any big capital projects as we’ve had in the past with the hospital, but the budget is supporting a number of projects like the sealing of the Hill End Road which will have a positive affect on tourism in Hill End which will affect Bathurst,” Mr Martin said.

He said other projects the budget supported was upgrades at Bathurst TAFE and a number of the region’s timber bridges.

“So education and roads are the main capital works [for Bathurst] in this year’s budget,” Mr Martin said.

A record $13.9 billion will be invested in schools, hospitals, roads, transport and other infrastructure around the state.

“The Iemma Government is also spending a record $47.6 billion on vital services such as funding for nurses and teachers, more police and new technology in schools,” he said.

But Nationals spokesperson for the Bathurst Electorate Rick Colless said he was disappointed Mr Martin failed to secure any funding for the Bells Line Expressway.

“There is not a cent in this budget for any planning, pre-construction or construction works on the Bells Line Expressway. This is despite a $2.2 billion splurge on roads spending to be rolled out over the next financial year,” Mr Colless said.