Works fast-tracked and planning begins for two bypasses

Construction is set to commence earlier than scheduled on the Muswellbrook Bypass, as planning kicks off on the new Cessnock Bypass, both situated in the Hunter region of New South Wales.

The fast-tracking of works on the Muswellbrook Bypass is the result of the Federal Government bringing forward its $304.8 million investment. Utility relocation work will start this year, ahead of the tender for major construction being announced in late 2026, before major construction commences in 2027.

The bypass will take traffic away from the town centre of Muswellbrook town centre, by moving the New England Highway to an alternate route to the town’s east. The new route will allow highway traffic to avoid traffic lights and flow freely at highway speeds, saving time for motorists and truck drivers who are travelling through the Hunter toward Aberdeen in the north, or the Liddell region in the south.

Residents will also benefit from less congested traffic and less wear and tear on local roads, with 13,000 to 20,000 vehicles using the route daily currently.

The Muswellbrook Bypass project forms part of the New England Highway Corridor upgrades.

The Federal Government has also announced $5 million to support future planning on the Cessnock bypass, which will bypass Cessnock’s city centre, reducing traffic and congestion in and around the town for motorists.

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Planning will identify an alternative safe route to connect new housing developments at Bellbird in Cessnock’s south west to Nulkaba in the north and then onwards to the Hunter Expressway.

Federal Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi said both projects would help to increase capacity and efficiency for both communities.

“When the bypass is complete, Muswellbrook will see less heavy traffic through its main streets, making it a more inviting place for locals and visitors to stop, shop, and enjoy everything our town has to offer,” Repacholi said.

“The $5 million investment from the Australian Government to kickstart planning for the Cessnock Bypass is another critical step in improving connectivity in the Hunter. Cessnock’s roads are under significant pressure, and this project will provide much-needed relief to residents and businesses alike.