There are few more thrilling ways to take in the beauty of Cessnock local government area than on two wheels.

A popular motorcycle tourist route through Cessnock LGA has been the focus of recent major upgrades, with improvements at two key intersections set to make it safer and more comfortable for the many riders who take to our roads each year.

In August, work finished on $1.3 million worth of safety improvements on George Downes Drive, at the intersection of Great Northern Road, Bucketty.

The upgrades, funded by the NSW Government’s Towards Zero Safer Roads Program, included shoulder widening, tree removal, roadside drainage improvements, pavement upgrades and resurfacing, and increased safety infrastructure including a guardrail and motorcycle protection rail, as well as line marking and delineation.

It comes off the back of $250,000 worth of upgrades to Rhino Corner – the intersection of Glenloona Road and Great North Road, Laguna - which included road resurfacing in a flood risk area, and raising the height of the road from a one-in-one-year flood level to a one-in-20-year flood level.

Cessnock City Mayor Daniel Watton said it was a boost for two-wheeled tourism in the Cessnock LGA.

"Some of the most scenic routes for motorcycle enthusiasts in NSW pass through the region,” said Clr Watton.

"The tourist route through the picturesque Wollombi Valley is a ride every motorcycle enthusiast should experience. Though after your first visit, I have no doubt you’ll be eager to return again soon.

"These upgrades will significantly improve the already wonderful experience of enjoying our beautiful local government area from the road."