Locals invited to walk new Scone bypass
21 February 2020
Michael Johnsen MP, State Member for Upper Hunter joined with Barnaby Joyce, Federal Member for New England to announce that the new Scone Bypass will open to foot traffic on 29 February, with the local residents and businesses invited to enjoy a community day.
Mr Johnsen said the bypass was a major win for Scone with heavy vehicles set to bypass the town centre.
"Our entire region will benefit immensely from the New England Highway bypass opening and the Community Walk is the perfect way to celebrate," Mr Johnsen said.
"The walk will give the community a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel on foot along the bypass and take some unique photos of the town and surrounds.
"Members of our local Scone community will be given a passport-style brochure as a memento and will be able to collect stamps as they cross the three bridges along the bypass route during the Community Walk.
"This is another example of the Nationals in Government keeping their commitments and delivering for the Upper Hunter electorate.
"There is still some finishing work to be completed, but the bypass will open to vehicles by Easter."
"I am very much looking forward to joining with our local community on the day to celebrate this significant milestone for our town," Mr Johnsen said.
Federal Member for New England Barnaby Joyce said the New England Highway was a major freight and commuter route, connecting Upper Hunter with Maitland and Newcastle.
The New England Highway south of Scone carries 8400 vehicles a day, peaking in town at 14,000, meanwhile more than 8000 vehicles use the Kelly Street crossing every day, including 1200 heavy vehicles," Mr Joyce said.
"With the opening of the new Scone Bypass, heavy vehicles will be able to divert past the town centre, giving local roads back to the community.
"It will reduce travel times for freight and long distance traffic, as well as boosting safety for all road users by providing an alternative route across town that is unimpeded by rail operations."
The new $137 million Scone Bypass is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments. More information is available on New England Highway bypass of Scone.