The CPB Contractors Hunter precast yard at Buchanan will be back in operation to build almost 600 concrete pieces for eight bridge structures on the section known as the New M5.

The site had been used as a storage area since the Hunter Expressway project concluded in 2014.

Minister for WestConnex Stuart Ayres said the motorway project was a “classic NSW infrastructure story”.

“It’s not only a road that people will drive on, it’s one of the largest jobs generators in the state,” Mr Ayres said.

“The economic boost WestConnex is providing stretches far beyond Sydney, with the St Peters Interchange section generating 50 jobs for the Hunter, a massive shot in the arm for this community. 

“WestConnex is not just about building vital infrastructure, it’s about supporting local industries and families that rely on a thriving economy.

“This site is creating jobs for locally-based steel fixers, concreters, supervisors and office staff and it will also act as a training ground for workers where they will have the opportunity to develop further skills on precasting techniques.

“As we continue to build this vital infrastructure project, we’re proud to be supporting regional communities and creating a skills legacy for the state.”

The Buchanan site is expected to be utilised until October 2018.

Many of the workers were previously employed on the Hunter Expressway project, like concrete supervisor Matt Coulton.

Mr Coulton, of Edgeworth, has worked on the Homebush Bay bridge project in Sydney and other concreting jobs in Newcastle since his two years on the expressway finished.

He said it was good to be working close to home.

In addition to the Hunter precast yard, the new M5 is also providing 35 jobs on the mid north coast at a precast yard in Coffs Harbour, which will build about 1000 pieces for the St Peter’s Interchange and Kingsgrove sites.

WestConnex will support 10,000 jobs during construction and inject more than $20 billion into the NSW economy.