Major work to upgrade the Newell Highway between Parkes and Peak Hill at Trewilga is underway with the arrival of diggers and machinery on site – the likes of which have not been seen in decades. Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Duncan Gay said the $36 million upgrade was vital. “We are putting in another overtaking lane, widening the road and building a truck parking area to ensure the backbone of country NSW and key freight link between Victoria and Queensland allows trucks to move efficiently as possible,” the Minister said.
“One-third of users on this stretch of highway are trucks and this is only going to increase, so we have to future proof the state’s road freight network.” The $36 million project will see 6.4km of road improved with a new 1.3km northbound overtaking lane installed, as well as upgrading and widening the existing road.
A truck parking area on the eastern side of the highway and a bus turning area at Kadina Road will be built. This upgraded section will also see its speed increased from 100 km/h to 110 km/h bringing it into line with the majority of the Newell Highway. The work is expected to be completed in early 2018.