The first phase of the multi-billion-dollar Coffs Harbour Bypass in New South Wales is complete, following the breakthrough of all three tunnels.
The Coffs Harbour bypass tunnelling team working on either side of the 410-metre-long Gatelys Road Tunnel broke through the northbound tube on Monday 28 October.
The team has now broken through the southbound tube, completing the first major phase of the three tunnels to be built as part of the bypass.
Each of the three tunnels will have two tubes, with each tube capable of carrying two lanes of traffic. There will also be room to accommodate cyclists.
The Federal Government is investing $1.76 billion towards the project, with the remaining $440 million investment provided by the New South Wales Government.
The next expected milestone for the project will be the breakthrough of the 320-metre-long Shephards Lane tunnel, expected in mid-April next year.
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The work comes despite a traditional tunnel boring machine not being feasible for use on the short tunnels due to the mobilisation time and cost.
Workers will now start excavating the tunnel floor, carry out the permanent tunnel lining works, install drainage, build the pavement, and complete the fit-out of the mechanical, electrical, fire, safety and intelligent transport systems.
All the equipment will then be tested and commissioned before the bypass is opened to the public which is expected to open to traffic in late 2026.
Jenny Aitchison, NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister said the project will remove 12,000 vehicles from the CBD.
“This will reduce travel times and deliver vital safety improvements,” said Aitchison.
“We see and hear regularly about tunnel projects around Sydney where tunnellers bore largely through sandstone or similar softer materials, but here in Coffs it’s been more challenging due to the material and location.
For more information, https://www.nsw.gov.au/