New England MP Barnaby Joyce yesterday announced 10 councils in his electorate would share in the funding over the next four years.

The grants form part of the $2.1 billion Roads to Recovery program, with the Abbott government keeping its promise to double payments in 2015-16.

Tamworth Regional Council, which is responsible for maintaining in excess of 3000km of sealed and unsealed roads, has been allocated more than $11 million.

Inverell Shire Council will receive $5.46 million, Tenterfield Shire Council $4.4 million, Gunnedah Shire Council $4.42 million and Armidale Dumaresq Council $3.97 million.

Mr Joyce said the announcement was “great news” for local councils, residents and businesses.

“These funds will make a real difference in building roads, repairing streets and creating better access across our community,” he said.

“The Roads to Recovery program enables councils to prioritise roads funding, to invest in the infrastructure which keeps our drivers safe and strengthens economic growth.”

Tamworth deputy mayor Russell Webb said council had compiled a list of local roads deemed “most in need” of attention.

He said the rankings were based primarily on safety, but also on the economic benefits that would flow to the community from an upgrade.

“A lot of the Roads to Recovery funding is spent on roads that have not been attended to due to a lack of funds over a long period of time,” Cr Webb said.