Safer and more reliable journeys along the New England Highway are a step closer, with early works almost complete for the Belford to Golden Highway upgrade ahead of major construction kicking off later this year.
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The intersection of the two highways has been the site of fatal and a number of serious accidents.
It is also a major bottleneck as drivers wait in long queues before being able to make the right hand turn from the Golden Highway to head south on the New England Highway.
The State Government first announced a flyover would be constructed at the intersection during the 2015 election.
Deputy Premier John Barilaro said the NSW Government is investing $97 million to improve safety, reduce travel times and decrease traffic flow on this key arterial route for the Hunter region, building a safer, stronger regional NSW.
"The Government are getting on with the job of upgrading the New England Highway to deliver a smoother, safer journey for motorists as part of our record investment in projects that make a real difference to our bush communities," Mr Barilaro said.
"This corridor is a critical connection between the urban and employment centres of Maitland and Singleton, which are planned future growth areas for the Hunter, so it's never been more important that we invest in regions like this, especially after a tough few years coming out of drought, bushfires and COVID-19."
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the project would not only benefit local communities, but also the freight industry.
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"The project involves upgrading the New England Highway to provide two travel lanes in each direction from Belford to the Golden Highway, and a flyover for vehicles turning right from the Golden Highway towards Maitland and Newcastle," Mr Toole said.
"More than 22,000 motorists travel this section of the highway each day, which is why we're getting on with the job of delivering this upgrade as a priority.
"These road corridors are used extensively by heavy vehicles servicing coal mining, grain production and other industries in the Hunter Valley and the Central West to access the port of Newcastle, so the upgrade will be a massive productivity boost for the regional economy."
Member for Upper Hunter Michael Johnsen said the upgrade would have a positive impact on the area beyond just road improvements.
"Early work is almost finished, with final testing work on the relocated gas mains underway paving the way for main construction to start later this year," Mr Johnsen said.
"This project has so far provided work for about six local suppliers and contractors, which is vital in the current challenging conditions.
"Work on the upgrade is expected to start in late 2021 and will take about three years to complete, weather permitting."
