Heavy Haulage Operations to Impact Newcastle Roads for Months

newy.com.au – Drivers across Newcastle are being warned to expect ongoing traffic disruptions, with a major program of oversize and overmass (OSOM) vehicle movements now underway across the region.

On Thursday night, 20 March 2025, the first of 28 massive 70-metre-long bridge girders began its journey from Tomago, bound for the ACT. Each load is being hauled along a complex route via the Pacific Highway, Inner City Bypass, Newcastle Link Road, M2, M7, Hume Highway and Barton Highway.

Weighing in at 160 tonnes, these OSOM transports pose significant challenges, requiring expert navigation through tight corners, under structures, and across busy project sites. The convoys are escorted by NSW Police, with traffic conditions altered around key sites including Hexham Bridge and the Rankin Park to Jesmond corridor.

To minimise daytime congestion, the transports are scheduled to move during night hours. However, their sheer size and slower travel speeds mean delays are inevitable. Drivers are being encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and remain patient.

Motorists will have supervised opportunities to pass the loads but are strongly advised to approach with caution, reduce speed, and follow all instructions from traffic controllers and police. A short video is available online offering guidance on how to safely share the road with these oversized loads.

For detailed information on scheduled movements and the cumulative impact on traffic, visit the Transport for NSW Newcastle and surrounds traffic impacts page.

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