Construction on the $710 million Singleton Bypass is advancing rapidly, with four of the project’s six bridges now taking shape. The eight-kilometre bypass, the largest road infrastructure project in Singleton’s history, is set to significantly improve traffic flow by diverting the New England Highway away from the town centre.
Work on the bridges, including piling and pier construction, is well underway. A major milestone was reached last week with the placement of the first girder on the project’s longest bridge—a 1.6-kilometre structure spanning the Doughboy Hollow floodplain.
“This is just the start of transformative work for this project,” said Federal Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi. “With bridge columns emerging and girders being installed, the Singleton Bypass is truly beginning to take shape.”
Major Benefits for Singleton and the Hunter
Once complete, the bypass will remove approximately 15,000 vehicles daily from Singleton’s CBD, eliminating the need to navigate five sets of traffic lights and easing congestion for the 26,000 motorists who use this section of the highway each day. The project will also enhance freight efficiency, improve road safety, and reduce travel times across the Hunter region.
NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister, Jenny Aitchison, commended the progress made since major construction began in September last year.
“Well done to the project team and its contractor for hitting the ground running,” Aitchison said. “Bridge building is a critical step, and motorists will soon witness the scale of this bypass unfolding before their eyes.”
The bypass will feature a full interchange at Putty Road and connections at the northern and southern ends of the highway, as well as at Gowrie Gates. Over the next six months, 435 girders, 207 piles, and 161 pier columns will be installed to complete the bridges.
A Boost for Jobs and the Local Economy
The project is also delivering economic benefits, supporting more than 1,300 jobs during construction. Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King highlighted the significance of the investment.
“It’s fantastic to see the biggest road infrastructure project in Singleton’s history starting to take shape,” King said. “I look forward to seeing the project progress as part of this great partnership between the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments.”
Opening Set for 2026
The Singleton Bypass, jointly funded by the Commonwealth ($560 million) and NSW Government ($150 million), is on track to open to traffic in late 2026, weather permitting.
“When the bypass is built, motorists will avoid five sets of traffic lights in Singleton’s CBD,” said State Labor spokesperson for Upper Hunter, Emily Suvaal. “It will improve safety, slash travel times, and increase efficiency for all road users.”
As work continues, Singleton locals and commuters will begin to see the magnitude of the project unfold. For further updates on the Singleton Bypass, visit: Transport for NSW.
