Bridge construction marks next step for $187M Parkes bypass

First work underway on NSW’s $187 million Parkes Bypass — Image courtesy of Transport for NSW.

A milestone has been reached on the Newell Highway Parkes bypass in New South Wales, with work starting on the new Victoria Street Bridge.

The Newell Highway Parkes bypass involves the construction of a 10.5 kilometre bypass approximately 1.5 to 2.0 kilometres in length west of the existing Newell Highway in Parkes. The bypass is expected to remove up to 1200 trucks per day from local streets and improve safety for motorists.

The works will form part of a suite of projects rolling out along the Newell Highway to deliver improved safety, boost freight productivity and reduce travel times between the Victorian and Queensland borders.

The $500 million Newell Highway upgrade program aims to support the interstate freight industry, provide and improve access and safety along a vital transport corridor in New South Wales.

New South Wales Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said major work started late last year on the project and the local community will be excited to see the next stage starting so soon.

“We expect the bridge to be completed in April next year so we thank Parkes residents for their patience while the essential work gets underway,” Farraway said.

Starting from Tuesday, 1 February, early works will include excavation and removal of material between Condobolin Road and Thomas Street before crews start to build the new bridge.

Construction of the bridge is expected to be completed in April next year. It is expected to support 350 jobs while works are on-going.

The $187.2 Newell Highway upgrade, Parkes Bypass project is jointly funded by the Australian Government and NSW Government.

For more information on the project, click here.