Singleton Bypass Takes Shape as Major Bridge Work Progresses

newy.com.au – Construction on Singleton’s largest-ever road infrastructure project is moving full steam ahead, with significant progress now being made on four bridges along the much-anticipated Singleton Bypass.

The eight-kilometre bypass, designed to divert traffic from the New England Highway away from Singleton’s town centre, is set to ease congestion, improve safety, and enhance freight efficiency. Once complete, the bypass will remove approximately 15,000 vehicles from the town’s roads each day and allow motorists to avoid five sets of traffic lights.

A major milestone was reached last week when the first girder was installed on what will be the longest bridge along the route—a 1.6-kilometre span across the Doughboy Hollow floodplain. Other key bridges are also well underway, including structures at the southern connection, the Hunter River crossing, and the New England Highway crossing at Gowrie. Over the next six months, workers will install 435 girders, 207 piles, and 161 pier columns, bringing the bypass closer to reality.

The project will ultimately deliver eight kilometres of new highway with a single lane in each direction, a full interchange at Putty Road, and key connections to the New England Highway at its northern and southern ends, as well as at Gowrie Gates. The bypass is on track to open to traffic in late 2026, pending favourable weather conditions.

The Australian and New South Wales Governments are jointly funding the project, with the Commonwealth contributing $560 million and the NSW Government providing $150 million. More than 1,300 jobs are being supported during construction, providing a boost to the local economy.

Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King highlighted the project’s significance, saying it represents the biggest road infrastructure investment in Singleton’s history and is progressing well under the partnership between the Albanese and Minns Governments. NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison also commended the project team’s efforts, stating that motorists will soon see the magnitude of the bypass taking shape before their eyes.

Federal Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi described the bypass as a transformative project that will benefit locals, workers, and visitors to the region. Meanwhile, State Labor spokesperson for the Upper Hunter, Emily Suvaal, emphasised the positive impact the bypass will have on traffic flow, road safety, and travel efficiency once completed.

For further updates on the Singleton Bypass, visit Transport for NSW.