New traffic changes as southern interchange takes shape on Newcastle Bypass

newy.com.au – Progress continues on the Rankin Park to Jesmond section of the Newcastle Inner City Bypass, with construction ramping up on the Southern Interchange and the new McCaffrey Drive alignment in the coming weeks.

To accommodate this next stage, Transport for NSW has announced changed traffic conditions will be in place over four weekends starting from Friday, 28 March 2025, weather permitting. These works are crucial to connect McCaffrey Drive with the existing alignment of Lookout Road and involve extensive earthworks, including road level adjustments ranging from one to four metres.

Anna Zycki, Regional Director for Transport for NSW, said the construction of the interchange and associated bridge is a complex process that will require temporary detours and closures. “If possible, we’re asking drivers to avoid the area and take alternate routes via Lake Road, Main Road, Macquarie Road and Hillsborough Road,” she said. “Please follow all signage and allow extra travel time.”

The works are scheduled to run from 7pm each Friday until 5am the following Monday across four weekends, with Lookout Road reduced to a single lane in both directions during these times. A full closure of McCaffrey Drive is slated for the third weekend, from Friday, 11 April to Monday, 14 April 2025, potentially adding up to 15 minutes of travel time due to detours up to five kilometres.

Ms Zycki explained the decision to bundle works over several weekends was made to minimise ongoing disruptions. “By completing this now, we can avoid numerous traffic switches, lane realignments and further closures in the future, which benefits all road users – including emergency services and public transport.”

Once complete, traffic will be redirected onto the new alignment, marking a key milestone for the Southern Interchange. This section of the bypass forms part of a $488.2 million joint investment by the Australian and NSW governments, with the 3.4 kilometre link expected to open in late 2025, weather permitting.

Locals can stay informed about road changes through the project website at nswroads.work/rp2j, Live Traffic NSW, or by using the Transport for NSW Trip Planner for public transport options.