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Government tips in $268.8 million for Muswellbrook Bypass

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Muswellbrook is expected to boast its own bypass by 2027 after the Australian Government committed $268.8 million to build the project.

For many people in the Hunter Valley, Tuesday’s announcement will be considered long overdue.

But, construction on the New England Highway development could begin as early as 2023.

Once complete, it will provide a major boost for freight travelling through the region.

The project is anticipated to support 720 direct and 1,090 indirect jobs, and will create opportunities for local businesses and suppliers, delivering a significant economic boost to the region.

Commonwealth funding for the Muswellbrook bypass is part of the new Energy Security and Regional Development Plan, which will see the government invest $750 million in the Hunter to transform the valley into a next generation export hub.

It is believed the NSW Government will also contribute $67.2 million in an 80:20 funding split.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the new bypass would help make the Hunter as strong as possible, as quickly as possible.

“The region is home to some of our most valuable commodities,” he explained during a visit to Muswellbrook.

“Building the Muswellbrook bypass will ensure these products continue flowing smoothly and safely to our ports.

“The sooner our valuable commodities are loaded onto boats and sent overseas, the sooner we get paid and the stronger we become.

“That is why we are investing in this critical transport route.”

NSW Deputy Premier Paul Toole said the Australian Government’s $268.8 million outlay brought the total joint investment in the New England Highway to more than $1.1 billion.

“We are getting on with the job, having delivered the $137 million Scone bypass ahead of schedule in 2020 and committing $700 million to build the Singleton bypass, on track for construction in 2023,” he stated.

“The New England Highway is a major freight and commuter route, and these bypasses will remove through traffic, dramatically reduce congestion and return local streets to the community.”

NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the bypass would improve the driving experience for all road users.

“Between 11,000 and 20,000 vehicles pass through Muswellbrook each day, about 13% of which are heavy vehicles,” he added.

“We will upgrade the currently predominately two-lane road, improving trip times and safety by avoiding numerous intersections, varying speed limits and nearby buildings with minimal setback from the road.

“The Muswellbrook bypass will lower costs for business and bolster our supply chains by improving travel times for long-haul freight movements thanks to a free-flowing, 100-kilometre-per-hour alternative route.”

The Review of Environmental Factors and concept design was displayed for community comment in November 2021, with the submission report due to be released soon.

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