A NEW and improved rail bridge is on the way to Singleton, with Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) and the Australian Rail and Track Corporation (ARTC) working together to replace the existing one on the New England Highway at Gowrie Gates.
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Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen said ARTC was managing the project and had awarded the tender to Arenco Daracon Joint Venture.
“The New England Highway through Singleton is part of the National Land Transport Network and is the main arterial connection between Newcastle and the Upper Hunter,” he explained.
“The current configuration of the rail bridge restricts access for wide load heavy vehicles on the New England Highway.
“The upgrade involves providing a new rail bridge across the New England Highway with a minimum 5.4 metre vertical clearance and widening of the highway under the rail bridge.
“The highway widening will provide 3.5 metre wide lanes and 2.5 metre wide shoulders to improve safety for motorists.
“A new shared path will also be provided to improve facilities for cyclists and pedestrians.”
Mr Johnsen said Arenco Daracon Joint Venture would also be relaying up to 200 metres of rail track as part of the contract.
“Once completed, the project will improve access and travel times for over-dimension freight movements on the New England Highway, minimise disruptions to freight movements on the highway, as well as the movement of bulk coal on the Main Northern Line while improving road safety for all road users,” he added.
“Work is scheduled to start in April, Roads and Maritime and ARTC will continue to keep stakeholders and the community informed as the project progresses.”
