Michael Johnsen MP announced the news on Tuesday September 27, saying that the Roads and Maritime Services and the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) are planning to replace the existing rail bridge at the Singleton railway underpass.

“The New England Highway through Singleton is part of the National Land Transport Network and is the main link connecting Newcastle to the Upper Hunter,” Mr Johnsen said. 

“The Main North Railway Line bridges over the highway north of Singleton at Gowrie Gates and the current structure restrict access for over width vehicles.”

The new structure is said to improve road and rail freight access through the Hunter Valley and includes replacing the rail bridge to provide increased horizontal clearance for over width vehicles and minimise disruptions to trains on the main north line.

“ARTC has recently awarded the detailed design contract to SMEC Pty Ltd. Detailed design is expected to take around 10 months to complete.

Work on the upgrade is expected to start mid next year and take up to 18 months to complete, weather permitting.Heavy vehicle access will still be required when a future bypass of the town is built.

“The widening maintains the existing two travel lanes and provides wider sealed shoulders and safer facilities for pedestrians and cyclists,” Mr Johnsen said. 

“The NSW Government allocated $1.5 million this year to progress planning for the upgrade.”

For more information please visit www.rms.nsw.gov.au