First Girder Installed on Hexham Straight, Marking Key Milestone in Newcastle Road Upgrade

The long-awaited Hexham Straight Widening project has reached a significant milestone, with the first girder being lifted into place over Ironbark Creek. This is a crucial step in the construction of a new southbound bridge, part of a broader effort to improve traffic flow and safety on this essential transport route connecting Newcastle and the Hunter region.

The project involves the installation of 65 precast girders, with the first now slotted into position. The southbound bridge, which will span 84 metres and measure 17.1 metres in width, is designed to temporarily handle four lanes of traffic—two in each direction—while work progresses on building a parallel northbound bridge. Once completed, each bridge will carry three lanes of traffic, easing congestion for the 50,000 vehicles that traverse this stretch daily.

Funded through a $2.24 billion investment as part of the M1 Pacific Motorway Extension to Raymond Terrace, this upgrade receives $1.79 billion in funding from the Australian Government, with additional support from the New South Wales Government.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, highlighted the significance of this project: “The Hexham Straight Widening is just one of several major infrastructure initiatives that will greatly enhance transport in Newcastle and the Hunter regions. By collaborating across government levels, we’re ensuring key transport routes keep pace with local growth and industry needs.”

NSW Minister for Roads, John Graham, emphasised the importance of the Hexham upgrade: “This is the last piece in a larger puzzle, connecting Sydney and Brisbane via a free-flowing route. The new bridges over Ironbark Creek will enhance traffic flow and overall safety.”

Work on the bridge follows months of preparatory tasks including piling, barrier installation, and geotechnical investigations. The new southbound structure is expected to be operational by 2026, providing relief for commuters at one of the area’s most notorious bottlenecks.

Newcastle and Hunter residents have voiced their anticipation for the benefits this development will bring. Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon, stated, “Having the first girder in place is a visible sign of progress. Local drivers will appreciate seeing this project move forward, knowing it’ll relieve congestion on their daily commutes.”

The project is part of a wider transformation of the region’s transport infrastructure, set to deliver lasting improvements for motorists, freight operators, and communities across the area.

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