With bypasses in Singleton and Muswellbrook likely to be under construction by the end of the year, several stakeholders recently met to discuss the future of both projects.

Singleton mayor Sue Moore and her Muswellbrook Shire counterpart Steve Reynolds, along with their respective council general managers Jason Linnane and Fiona Plesman, as well as Singleton deputy mayor Tony Jarrett, joined newly-elected Hunter MP Dan Repacholi, Upper Hunter state MP Dave Layzell and representatives from Transport for NSW in hearing updates following further funding allocations in last week’s NSW Budget.

The meeting was timely as the bypasses continue to be a high-priority for residents under the adopted Create Singleton 2032 Community Strategic Plan (CSP) and the Muswellbrook Shire Council Community Strategic Plan.

It’s estimated more than 26,000 vehicles – including 3,700 of them categorised as “heavy” – pass through the Upper Hunter townships each day.

Cr Moore said it was appropriate for Singleton and Muswellbrook councils to work together on the delivery of the projects, as well as ensure the best social and economic outcomes for both communities with future uses of the existing roadway.

“I can understand many people are questioning whether progress is being made on the bypasses,” she stated.

“But, Transport for NSW has provided a thorough overview of the work that is happening and what needs to be done to allow construction to begin.

“We’ve been told we’ll start seeing works on the ground later in 2022, and construction will take three years.

“At the same time, we need to start planning now for the opportunities the bypass will bring to encourage people into our towns to build on economic and social development.”

Ms Plesman agreed with Cr Moore’s sentiments, adding “after a very long wait, the communities of Muswellbrook Shire can be confident the bypass will be delivered by the end of 2026.”