23 MAY 2016

Work is starting today Monday 23 May to upgrade Tourle Street and Cormorant Road at Kooragang.

The Australian and NSW governments have jointly funded the project to duplicate 3.8 kilometres of Tourle Street and Cormorant Road between Industrial Drive, Mayfield West and Cormorant Road,” a Roads and Maritime Services spokesperson said.

“The upgrade will improve traffic flow and cater for the forecast increase in traffic due to future urban development in Port Stephens, the expansion of Newcastle Airport and industrial development on Kooragang Island.

“Tourle Street and Cormorant Road form the main corridor connecting Kooragang Island to Newcastle and the southern section of the Port of Newcastle, catering for around 33,000 vehicles each day, including more than 3000 heavy vehicles.”

The Roads and Maritime spokesperson said the upgrade involves duplicating 3.8 kilometres of the road between Industrial Drive, Mayfield West and Egret Street to provide two lanes in each direction and building a new two lane bridge on the western side of the existing bridge complete with 2.5 metre road shoulders along Cormorant Road to improve cyclist safety.

“Road widening would be mainly carried out on the southern side of Cormorant Road to ensure minimal impact to the Long Pond which is home to a variety of fauna including swans,” the spokesperson said.

“With early work to prepare the site compound now complete, WBHO McIlwain joint venture can start major work including earthwork and setting up fencing and temporary barriers, building a temporary wharf to the west of the existing bridge and piling work.

“The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2018, weather permitting.”

Roads and Maritime will continue to keep stakeholders and the community informed as the project progresses.

Media: ROADS AND MARITIME SERVICES MEDIA UNIT 8588 5999 or media@rms.nsw.gov.au