Contractor appointed for $261m NSW Newell Highway pavement upgrades

Construction is on track to begin in mid-2022 on the largest ever heavy-duty pavement upgrade on the Newell Highway between Narrabri and Moree, New South Wales following the appointment of a contractor to undertake the project. 

Through a competitive tender process, Fulton Hogan Pty Ltd has been awarded the contract to carry out about 27.3 kilometres of heavy-duty pavement upgrades at four priority sections of the highway. 

“This upgrade will provide significant benefits to motorists travelling inland between Queensland and Victoria. 

“The Australian Government is committed to investing in safer and more productive regional roads as part of our record $110 billion, nationwide infrastructure plan. 

“These crucial upgrades will help to connect regional businesses to local and international markets, and better link up regional communities – to help secure a brighter economic future for our regions,” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said. 

Fulton Hogan’s scope of works will focus on building new sections of road along with five new overtaking lanes, two new heavy vehicle rest areas, intersection upgrades and several new bridge-sized culverts – including at Clarks Gully. 

“The project will reduce travel times, improve freight productivity and improve access along the Newell Highway, as well as the future Moree Special Activation Precinct and Northern NSW Inland Port at Narrabri. 

“We are really thrilled to have Fulton Hogan on board and are confident they are the right people for the job,” NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said. 

Project map (source: Transport for NSW)

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said this Newell Highway upgrade is an exciting project for the communities in Narrabri and Moree. The project will also help the region take advantage of Inland Rail that is currently under construction. 

“This section of the Newell Highway is located within one of the most productive agricultural regions in Australia, so it’s critical that this road is up to scratch to ensure our farmers can more efficiently get their products to market, while improving safety and efficiency for all road users. 

“The Australian Government will continue to invest in and deliver the infrastructure projects that matter to locals, businesses and freight,” Mr Coulton said. 

The $261.17 million heavy-duty pavement upgrades are jointly funded by the Australian and New South Wales Governments, each contributing $205.73 million and $55.44 million respectively. 

The Newell Highway is a vital road infrastructure that keeps the region connected as well as helps keep freight moving while benefitting the state economy. 

“It is fantastic to see even further investment from the State and Federal governments into this critical piece of infrastructure. 

“It is also really exciting to see local contractors involved with this project because when we employ locals the whole community benefits,” Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall said. 

Works are expected to commence in June this year and completed in late 2025. 

Source: Transport for NSW (1, 2)