Travel around Bathurst and the wider Central West is continuing to face disruption, with the Great Western Highway at Victoria Pass closed in both directions for urgent road repairs. The closure is adding pressure to alternative routes and contributing to longer travel times for motorists travelling between Bathurst, the Blue Mountains and Sydney.

The transport situation is also being affected by rail maintenance, with services between Bathurst and Parramatta being replaced by buses during works on the Blue Mountains rail corridor. The combination of road and rail disruptions has created additional challenges for commuters, businesses and regional travellers.

Authorities are urging motorists to plan ahead, allow additional travel time and check current road conditions before setting out. Alternative routes can become congested, particularly during busy periods or when wet weather affects driving conditions.

The closure is particularly significant for the Central West because the Great Western Highway is an important connection between regional communities and the Sydney metropolitan area. Local businesses and residents who rely on regular road traffic have expressed concerns about the economic impact of prolonged disruptions.

Transport for NSW says the Victoria Pass section remains closed while urgent repair work is undertaken. Drivers should follow official traffic directions and avoid attempting to access closed sections of the highway.

With wet weather also affecting Bathurst today, motorists should take extra care on alternative roads. Rain can reduce visibility and increase stopping distances, making already congested routes more difficult to navigate.

For Bathurst residents, the current situation highlights the importance of checking transport updates before travelling, particularly for journeys toward Lithgow, the Blue Mountains or Sydney.