People who have recently bought properties adjoining the F6 motorway extension route have been given wrong information by a state government department about the potential effect on their homes.
The mistake coincides with the government starting to progress the project, which has been no more than a line on a map for more than 60 years.
Minister for Finance, Services and Property, Dominic Perrottet said Land and Property Information (LPI) had issued a number of incorrect certificates as a result of the Central Register of Restrictions (CRR) not being completely updated due to an administrative error.
“The CRR provides prospective purchasers with information about potential and actual government or authority interests in a parcel of land,” he said.
Mr Perrottet said his advice was an estimated 309 inquirers may have received an incorrect response to their CRR search between June 27 and October 24 this year.
This affected at least 140 recently transacted properties in which Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) may have an interest.
“The properties are potentially affected by the proposed F6 motorway and the Werrington arterial project,” he said.
“Efforts are continuing in the department to determine the complete details in relation to this error.”
Mr Perrottet said this was “a concerning incident for people who have recently purchased property in the affected areas”.
“The government’s first priority is ensuring that affected residents are provided with the correct information and support they require,” he said.
Mr Perrottet said he had asked the Customer Service Commissioner to ensure residents who may be affected by this error were contacted and provided with the assistance they needed.
He had also instructed the secretary of the Department of Finance, Services and Innovation to conduct an immediate independent investigation.
Anyone with concerns is advised to contact the LPI call centre on 1300 052 637, email: generalenquiry@lpi.nsw.gov.au or visit: lpi.nsw.gov.au/
The route of the motorway was confirmed earlier this year after the government looked at the alternative of taking it through Menai area and over Alfords Point Bridge to link with the M5.
