The Coulsons Creek Road in New South Wales’ Upper Hunter region is being rebuilt between Merriwa and Willow Tree Road.
Works are now in full swing following the commitment of more than $48 million in funding from the Australian and New South Wales Governments.
“The upgrade of this three-kilometre section of road will mean B-double trucks will once again be able to use this route, meaning heavier loads can be transported more efficiently.
“This provides cost savings for heavy vehicle operators and the community,” Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi said.
“Today marks a pivotal moment for the Upper Hunter region as we break ground on the Coulsons Creek Road upgrade.
“This project represents the collective efforts and dedication of our community, backed by significant support from the NSW and Australian governments,” Upper Hunter Shire Mayor Maurice Collison said.
Coulsons Creek Road was built in 2019 and this vital community connection was closed in 2021 due to heavy rainfall and subsequent land slips that significantly damaged it.
The upgrade will deliver improved drainage, protection against rock falls, new safety barriers, signage and line marking.
“It is great to see work getting under way on this important regional road in the Upper Hunter after being closed for more than three years, and to see the cooperation between the three levels of government.
“We know how important this road is for agriculture and livestock, providing essential access for farmers and livestock producers.
“It will also reduce travel times for all road users while improving safety by reducing traffic volumes on those roads that were being used as detours while Coulsons Creek Road was out of service,” Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said.
Transport for NSW along with Infrastructure NSW and Public Works Advisory worked closely with the Upper Hunter Shire Council to develop the new design for Coulsons Creek Road.
This project is jointly funded by the Australian and New South Wales Governments, each contributing $38.6 million and $9.66 million respectively.
Daracon Group will be carrying out the upgrade on Coulsons Creek Road and, weather permitting, project construction is expected to be completed by mid 2025.
“Work on this road will restore an important connection between the Golden and New England highways, benefiting tourism in this beautiful part of regional NSW, logistics, distribution and supply chains.
“Having three NSW Government agencies working with the Upper Hunter Shire Council with multi-million-dollar contributions from the Australian and NSW governments demonstrates how all levels of government recognise the importance of this road,” NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said.
“I am delighted to see that this crucial work to Coulsons Creek Road is well and truly underway.
“This is a huge win for the community here in the Upper Hunter, with all levels of government coming together to ensure delivery on these crucial upgrade works.
“I commend the hard work of everyone involved in making this project happen and look forward to taking a drive myself once the work is complete,” NSW Duty MLC for Upper Hunter Emily Suvaal said.
Source: NSW Government – Media Releases; Transport for NSW; Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government