Hunter motorists will gain some relief from the current traffic woes, with all four lanes set to reopen on the New England Highway at Tarro.
It’s understood Transport for NSW (TfNSW) plans to resume normal operations on the busy thoroughfare, from Thursday 26 October, following the completion of phase one of critical repairs on the Tarro Rail Bridge.
That includes access for restricted heavy vehicles, too.
TfNSW was able to prioritise the urgent and critical repairs as quickly and safely as possible, according to chief operating officer Roger Weeks.
“The lifting of restrictions on Tarro Rail Bridge have come sooner than expected,” he said.
“The last part of essential work needed to reopen all four lanes, including to Class 1 heavy vehicles and those over 69 tonnes, was scheduled on Wednesday 25 October.
“We’ll then undergo a final inspection.
“I’m sure that will offer welcome respite to motorists across the Hunter and the freight sector.
“We acknowledge the impacts these restrictions have had while Transport for NSW crews completed these critical repairs over the past week.
“But, the safety of motorists and other road users will always be top priority.
“We thank the community for their patience and understanding while we have worked on the repairs to return the bridge to usual operating conditions.”
Further non-urgent works will be completed at a later stage.
However, to minimise impacts on motorists, it’ll take place at night.
The additional passenger train services added to the Hunter Line between Newcastle and Maitland, which were put on to meet increased rail patronage, is expected to continue for now.
Two additional daily weekday services will run for an extra week while NSW TrainLink assesses passenger numbers following restrictions being lifted on the bridge.
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