Member for Kiama Gareth Ward is concerned about changes to weight restrictions for Hampden Bridge, raising questions in NSW Parliament about the impacts on local farmers, business and animal welfare.

Ward raised his questions to Minister for Roads, and Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison, claiming the government misled the communty about the heritage-listed famous local landmark which was opened way back in 1898.

“The Government lied. They said there had been consultation with the Kangaroo Valley Community Consultative Body but the KVCCB has said there was no consultation on this specific proposal with them,” Ward said.

“Not only with this weight reduction significantly increase costs to primary producers and business, but this change will also mean livestock from the Shoalhaven will be on the road for longer as they make the trip to the sale yards in Moss Vale.

“All our community is asking for is that the NSW Government pause its proposed 30 May date for the implementation of this change and properly consult the community. It’s not an unreasonable request."

Ward claimed that the state Labor government is "fast developing a reputation for failing to consult with our local communities on major changes that impact regional NSW".

“It doesn’t matter whether it’s the Hampden Bridge, a massive reduction in speed zones on Jamberoo Road, Riverside Drive or Bolong Road, or the turning back on of speed cameras that were previously deemed a dirty revenue raisers by Transport for NSW, this government continues to ignore our local community and do whatever it wants," he said.

“Whilst they are all on the coast for happy snaps today, it’s time they started listening and acting."

Minns and his state government ministers were in Ulladulla on Tuesday for a South Coast Community Cabinet forum at Ulladulla Civic Centre.