Motorists travelling along the New England Highway, between Tamworth and Willow Tree, will soon benefit from safer and smoother journeys with work now underway on a new overtaking lane.
Under the Road Safety Program, the Albanese and Minns Labor governments have invested a total of $5 million to build a new overtaking lane on the New England Highway, around 30 kilometres south of Tamworth.
The new 1.2km overtaking lane will improve safety and traffic flow for southbound motorists and provide an important safety initiative on the New England Highway between Tamworth and Willow Tree.
The project also includes:
- widening the sealed shoulders
- extending the concrete drainage
- realigning and resurfacing the existing road surfaces
- installing a one-metre-wide centre line treatment
- installing new guard rails and improving road safety signage
Transport for NSW is undertaking the improvements, with works expected to be complete in late March 2027, weather permitting.
Road works hours are between 6.30am to 6pm, Monday to Friday and between 6.30am to 6pm when required on Saturday.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain MP:
“The Albanese and Minns governments are investing in essential road infrastructure that will serve people living in, working in, and visiting regional NSW for many years to come.
“Safety on our roads is a top priority, and with works beginning on New England Highway, this is another example of our commitment to protecting all road users.
“Once complete, these upgrades will ensure safer, smoother and more efficient journeys for the thousands of commuters who travel along this busy corridor each day.”
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison:
“Getting on with upgrades like this is about making sure regional communities have the safe and reliable road networks they deserve.
“The New England Highway serves as a critical connection for thousands of residents and freight operators every day, which is why safety improvements are so important.
“This new overtaking lane will provide safer and more efficient connections across the region, helping road users travel to work, return home as well as transport essential goods and services.”
Quotes attributable to Senator for NSW, Tim Ayres:
“The New England Highway is an important piece of infrastructure for residents, agriculture and local industry.
“This joint investment from the Australian and New South Wales governments delivers practical improvements that will help improve road safety between Willow Tree and Tamworth.”
Quotes attributable to NSW Labor Spokesperson for Tamworth, Anthony D’Adam:
“We know how important the New England Highway is to freight operators and people travelling through the region, and these upgrades will help make journeys safer and more reliable for everyone.
“With work now underway, we’re getting on with the job of delivering safer roads for the motorists right across the state.”
