3 July 2020

Upgrades to the Newell Highway between Coonabarabran and Narrabri have been accelerated as part of the NSW Government’s economic stimulus package.

NSW Upper House MP Sam Farraway said stimulus funding from the $2.3 billion COVID-19 package announced in March has allowed Transport for NSW to bring forward and deliver projects in addition to its planned program of work.

“As a result of this package, $4.25 million has been allocated to widen the road surface and install wider centerlines along the Newell Highway between Coonabarabran and Narrabri,” Mr Farraway said.

“The Newell Highway is the economic backbone for the freight and livestock industry, residents, tourists and emergency services and these upgrades will make trips safer and more efficient for all road users.

“The additional funding has meant we can get cracking on this section of highway ahead of schedule which will also provide an important boost for local jobs and businesses.” 

Mr Farraway said work on the Newell Highway had started this week and will take seven months to complete, weather permitting.

The upgrades will be carried out on weekdays from 7am to 6pm and from 8am to 1pm on Saturdays.

Mr Farraway said the work was on top of more than $500 million in improvements to the Newell including the addition of 30 additional overtaking lanes.