Hexham Straight Widening project steps forward with contractors announced

Major construction work to widen Hexham Straight will start soon, with the contractors to deliver the project now on board. 
Transport for NSW Regional Director North Anna Zycki said it’s been announced today that Georgiou Group Pty Ltd, Daracon Contractors Pty Ltd and SMEC Australia Pty Ltd would collaborate closely to deliver the major project, which will improve safety and traffic flow for the 50,000 motorists and heavy vehicles who use this route every day. 
“The work will be delivered as part of a collaborative alliance contract to ensure innovation, efficiency and value for money in bringing the plan to life,” Ms Zycki said.
“The Hexham project is part of one of the biggest infrastructure projects for the region, which also includes extending the M1 to Raymond Terrace. 
“The Australian Government and NSW Government have worked together to provide $2.1 billion to deliver the M1 extension and the Hexham Straight widening projects – with $1.68 billion from the Australian Government and $420 million from NSW.”
Ms Zycki said this project would improve traffic flow along the Pacific Highway (Maitland Road) between Newcastle Inner City Bypass and Hexham Bridge, which is known as Hexham Straight. 
“It will also support economic growth at key employment areas such as the Port of Newcastle and Greater Newcastle and is estimated to provide about 750 jobs over its life cycle,” Ms Zycki said.
“Early works are well and truly underway with Transport for NSW carrying out field investigations to assist with the future detailed design and construction.   
“This is an exciting time for the Hunter and NSW as this project, together with the Coffs Harbour bypass, will provide the remaining major upgrades to complete a free-flowing route between Sydney and Brisbane with no traffic lights.”
Work is expected start mid next year, with the project expected to be open to traffic in 2026.
For more information visit nswroad.work/hexham