Thornton Bridge Duplication Moves Ahead with Fresh $35M Injection

20 June 2025

newy.com.au – Two major road upgrades in the Hunter region have received a significant funding injection, with the NSW Government allocating an additional $35 million to the long-awaited duplication of Thornton Bridge. This brings the total state investment in the project to $50 million, aimed at tackling congestion and improving flood-resilient access for the growing community.

The boost, announced as part of the NSW Budget on 20 June, follows a recent $100 million commitment from the Government for a westbound overpass on the New England Highway near Maitland Station. With early works already underway at Thornton, including road surface surveys on Thornton Road and Railway Avenue, Transport for NSW is preparing for full-scale construction once design work and contracts are finalised.

NSW Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said the investment would be transformative for residents, easing peak-hour gridlock and enhancing access to homes, work, and essential services. She also took aim at the former Coalition government for allowing residential development to outpace infrastructure, noting they “left the job half-done” north of the bridge.

Hunter Minister Yasmin Catley spoke about to the Government’s broader infrastructure agenda across the region, which includes the Singleton and Muswellbrook bypasses, the Newcastle Inner City Bypass, and the M1 extension to Raymond Terrace. These projects, she said, are designed to support a region expected to soon exceed one million residents.

Federal MP Meryl Swanson described the overpass project as a “game-changer” for Maitland, promising safer, faster travel for commuters and better connectivity for businesses and tourists. With both levels of government backing key road upgrades, the Hunter is set to benefit from a renewed focus on regional transport infrastructure after years of stagnation.

Maitland councillor Mitchell Griffin welcomed the funding announcement, crediting recent council advocacy for prompting swift state action. He said the $35 million commitment for the Thornton Bridge duplication came just days after councillors raised concerns during a council meeting, following his Notice of Motion on the area’s infrastructure shortfall. While he described the announcement as a “small win” for the community, Cr Griffin said that much more was needed, highlighting the urgent need for investment in Haussman Drive and the roundabouts at Weakleys Drive and Glenwood Drive. Council has formally requested a meeting with the local member to push for further commitments, particularly as suburbs like Rutherford, Anambah and Lochinvar face rapid growth in the years ahead.