An important milestone for the Hillsborough Road upgrade has been reached today with tenders called for the construction of stage one of the project.  

The Minns Labor Government is investing $35 million to upgrade the 1.8 kilometre stretch of road, from the Newcastle Inner City Bypass roundabout to the existing duplication west of Crockett Street.

Transport sought feedback from the community on the concept design and environmental assessment in November 2022, with the submissions report published in August 2023. 

Transport for NSW is looking to award the contract for the construction of stage one in early 2026, with construction of stage one expected take about 18 months to complete, depending on final staging arrangements.

Potholing, geotechnical, and utility investigation works were carried out in August 2024 in preparation for stage one work.

For the latest information on the project, visit http://nswroads.work/hillsboroughroad  

Member for Charlestown, Jodie Harrison said:

“The 36,000 motorists who use Hillsborough Road daily can look forward to more reliable journeys, with improved traffic flow, safety, and accessibility for all road users.

“Stage one involves upgrading the Crockett Street intersection, including the installation of traffic lights and duplication of 700 metres of the road at this location.

“This Hillsborough Road upgrade is part of the Minns Labor Government’s ongoing commitment to set our regional communities up for the future, improving safety on our regional, rural and remote roads, reducing travel times and increasing productivity.”

Member for Lake Macquarie, Greg Piper said:

“This upgrade has been a long time coming for our community. Hillsborough Road is one of the busiest routes in our region and finally moving to the tender stage is a major step forward.

“This investment will not only improve safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians but will also make it easier for people to get where they need to go, whether that’s work, school, or supporting local businesses.

“I know how important this project is for local residents, and I’ll continue to advocate for further stages to be delivered as quickly as possible.”

Labor Spokesperson for Lake Macquarie, Emily Suvaal said:

“Hillsborough Road is a vital link for the Lake Macquarie community and I know how frustrating the congestion has been for locals.

“This project will deliver safer intersections, smoother traffic flow and better connections for all road users.

“By delivering this upgrade, the Minns Labor Government is showing its commitment to making our roads safer and more reliable, and to backing in the infrastructure that communities like ours deserve.”