The work on Coulsons Creek Road will take place between Merriwa and Willow Tree Road.
The road had been previously completed in 2019, but the vital community connection was significantly damaged by heavy rainfall and subsequent land slips, causing its closure in 2021.
The upgraded road will feature improved drainage, protection against rock falls, new safety barriers, signage and line marking.
Transport for NSW, Infrastructure NSW and Public Works Advisory worked closely with the Upper Hunter Shire Council on a new design for the road.
The Australian Government has committed $38.6 million and the NSW Government $9.66 million for the repairs to be carried out.
Daracon Group has been awarded the contract to carry out the work.
Work is expected to be complete by mid 2025, weather permitting.
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said:
“It is great to see work getting under way on this important regional road in the Upper Hunter after being closed for more than three years, and to see the cooperation between the three levels of government.
“We know how important this road is for agriculture and livestock, providing essential access for farmers and livestock producers.
“It will also reduce travel times for all road users while improving safety by reducing traffic volumes on those roads that were being used as detours while Coulsons Creek Road was out of service.”
NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said:
“Work on this road will restore an important connection between the Golden and New England highways, benefiting tourism in this beautiful part of regional NSW, logistics, distribution and supply chains.
“Having three NSW Government agencies working with the Upper Hunter Shire Council with multi-million-dollar contributions from the Australian and NSW governments demonstrates how all levels of government recognise the importance of this road.”
Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi said:
“The upgrade of this three-kilometre section of road will mean B-double trucks will once again be able to use this route, meaning heavier loads can be transported more efficiently.
“This provides cost savings for heavy vehicle operators and the community.”
NSW Duty MLC for Upper Hunter, Emily Suvaal said:
“I am delighted to see that this crucial upgrade work to Coulsons Creek Road is well and truly underway.
“This is a huge win for the community here in the Upper Hunter, with all levels of government coming together to ensure delivery on these crucial upgrade works.
“I commend the hard work of everyone involved in making this project happen and look forward to taking a drive myself once the work is complete.”
Upper Hunter Shire Mayor Maurice Collison said:
“Today marks a pivotal moment for the Upper Hunter region as we break ground on the Coulsons Creek Road upgrade.
“This project represents the collective efforts and dedication of our community, backed by significant support from the NSW and Australian governments.
“Their support reaffirms the critical role of government partnership in driving regional growth and prosperity.
“We are committed to enhancing our infrastructure to support our community's needs today and into the future.”
