'Big milestone': construction to begin on Hillsborough Road upgrade

Daracon Contractors will soon begin work to upgrade the Crockett Street intersection, install new traffic lights and duplicate 700 metres of Hillsborough Road.

The state government has committed $35 million for the Crockett Street Stage one upgrade.

The project will ultimately upgrade the full 1.8 kilometre stretch of Hillsborough Road between the Newcastle Inner City Bypass roundabout and the duplication west of Crockett Street.

Early works will begin in April. Major construction is expected to start in May and take around 18 months to complete, depending on staging arrangements.

About 36,000 motorists use Hillsborough Road each day, and the upgrade is aimed at delivering smoother journeys, improved safety and better access.

Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said the contract being awarded was a "big milestone".

"After years of congestion and frustration for local drivers, we're getting on with the job of delivering real upgrades that make a difference," she said.

Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison said it was great news for residents and motorists.

"We know Hillsborough Road is a critical link for those travelling to, from and around Lake Macquarie," Ms Harrison said.

"The region is rapidly expanding which is why upgrades such as these are critical in supporting future growth."

Lake Macquarie MP Greg Piper said the upgrade would ease congestion, improve travel times, enhance safety and support economic growth.

"This is the moment Lake Macquarie residents have been waiting for - the green light to get boots on the ground," Mr Piper said.

"The Hillsborough Road upgrade is an essential investment for our local infrastructure which will pave the way for safer, faster, and more reliable travel for everyone."