The state government office that also houses the local Roads and Maritime Services branch stands at the corner of Corporation Avenue and the Mitchell Highway at the western entrance to the city.

The intersection features a grand welcome sign installed three years ago by Bathurst Regional Council, the newly upgraded reflective pond at the Norwood Crematorium and lush green lawns outside the Bathurst Automotive Group, Bathurst Motors and Bathurst Volkswagen car yards.

But the image has let down badly by the long, dry grass left to grow outside the service centre - and nearby businesses have had enough.

Joe English from Kelso Kitchens believes a government agency should be doing better.

“I mowed their side of the street a few weeks ago and it only took about 15 minutes on the ride-on,” Mr English said.

“All the businesses around here take great pride in our lawns but we have to put up with a government body on the corner looking totally neglected.

“This is a main entrance to town and the traffic along that road is incredible.”

Bathurst councillor Warren Aubin echoed Mr English’s thoughts.

“I just find it really disappointing that every other business in that zone is looking nice and manicured at the entrance to the city and then we get that,” he said.

Bathurst Volkswagen stands right beside the Bathurst Service Centre with lawns that adjoin each other.

“We have our sprinklers automatically set to go every day and we have a guy who comes out once a week to mow and weed ,” sales manager Janita Kelly said.

“I can’t think of any other government departments that are left looking like that.”

Despite neighbours’ concerns, a spokesperson for Service NSW passed the buck when asked about maintaining the verge, saying they only leased the premises.

“Service NSW does not lease the verge next to the site,” she said.

“Service NSW is taking steps, however, to have this issue addressed with the building owner.”

FOLLOWING inquiries from the Western Advocate, a man was dispatched to mow the lawn on Tuesday afternoon.

We wait now to see how long it takes for it to be mowed again.

The area still needs a regular drink of water.