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Hundreds of homes across Camden and Wollondilly could be saved if the state government decides to change the proposed M9 Outer Sydney Orbital route. The government is expected discuss the controversial motorway in NSW Cabinet this Thursday with an announcement expected next week. A 9News report on Monday, June 4 said the proposed eight-lane motorway route and freight rail line from Menangle to Box Hill would not go ahead as first announced in March. The change to the proposed route will likely include tunnelling and the use of government land. Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the government would listen to resident feedback. “A lot of people have told us they’re not happy with the way those corridors have been designated and we are certainly taking that feedback on board,” she said. Outer Sydney Orbital Macarthur Action Group founder Andrew Simpson said it was heartening to hear the Premier was listening to the community. “We are thankful the government is listening and seems to be responding rapidly to resolve the orbital route issues,” he said. “We are waiting until next week to hear what comes next.” Camden MP Chris Patterson said he could not confirm that the route would be tunnelled or use government land but was pleased the Premier was listening to feedback. “Jai Rowell and I have asked for the route to be tunnelled and use government land in our submission,” he said. “Jai and I have made it clear from the start that this is a proposed route and what will be gazetted will be different than what was originally announced.” Wollondilly MP Jai Rowell said he and Mr Patterson were pleased with the outcomes of the numerous meetings they had with the Premier and ministers. “The government is yet to make a final decision,” Mr Rowell said. “Chris and I have put the views of our community fairly and squarely on the table. The ministers are aware of our position.” The Minister for Transport Andrew Constance told the Advertiser in May that tunnelling for the motorway would be considered when the route corridor was finalised. “I want to be very clear that no firm decisions have been made and that nothing is off the table,” he said. “We will consider all options for the Outer Sydney Orbital including tunnelling where required.”

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