Construction Continues at Hexham Straight

In a joint effort to enhance traffic flow and improve safety on one of New South Wales' vital roadways, the Australian and NSW Governments have undertaken a substantial investment in the expansion and upgrade of the Maitland Road section between Newcastle Inner City Bypass and Hexham Bridge, aptly named 'Hexham Straight.' Daracon Group, in collaboration with partners Georgiou and SMEC, has been spearheading this transformative project under an alliance contract with Transport for NSW since mid-2023.

This month works continue, including installation of barriers and line-marking, removal and building new road pavements including asphalting, storm water and pavement investigations and traffic signal works.

Bridge piling for the new southbound bridge over Ironbark Creek will also commence from late February 2024. Work will take place over ten weeks and will include delivery of plant and materials, building a temporary working platform and installation of bored and driven bridge piles.

When opening the project in July last year Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King detailed what this means for the Hunter and surrounds.

“The Australian Government is committed to working with the NSW Government to deliver the safe and efficient road network people in the Hunter and beyond need and deserve,” she said.

The Hexham Straight project encompasses an array of key upgrades, including the widening of lanes, construction of two new bridges and intersection upgrades.

At that time, NSW Roads Minister John Graham also shared his thoughts on how the Hexham Straight Widening Project will transform travel around the Hunter by improving the connection between Newcastle and the New England Highway, M1 Motorway and the Pacific Highway.

“The project, which will transform a six-kilometre section from two lanes to three in each direction, will improve traffic flow for the 50,000 motorists and freight vehicles who use this route each day while also providing an economic boost in key employment areas around Greater Newcastle and the Port of Newcastle,” said Mr Graham.

Daracon’s Divisional Manager Hunter Civil, Michael Rummery reflected on what a game-changer this project will be for the local community.

 “Daracon Group and our alliance partners have been working diligently to help the Hunter on this transformative journey, working to deliver a modern and efficient infrastructure asset that will benefit the region for generations to come.”