The Australian and New South Wales Governments are investing $40 million to upgrade key intersections in Gilgandra to make them safer for heavy vehicle drivers and locals.
Four existing intersections on Hargraves Lane and Federation Street which intersect with the Newell, Oxley and Castlereagh highways will be upgraded to increase freight productivity, reduce travel delays and improve safety.
The Australian Government is contributing $32 million towards the project, with the NSW Government contributing the remaining $8 million.
The upgrades will be designed to open up bypass access for all heavy vehicles and reduce the number of heavy vehicles passing through the Gilgandra CBD.
“These intersection upgrades will be really significant for both Gilgandra locals and the truckies who transport goods through and around the town,” said Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King.
“We’re proud to partner with the NSW Government on strategic investments like this that make our roads safer and more efficient.”
Some larger heavy vehicles are currently unable to use Gilgandra’s heavy vehicle bypass because these intersections can’t be safely navigated – meaning some of the biggest and heaviest vehicles need to travel along the Castlereagh Highway (Miller Street) through the town centre.
The NSW Government has carried out preliminary investigations to determine the requirements for each of the key intersections and is currently consulting with Gilgandra Shire Council and other key stakeholders to refine the proposed improvements.
“This $40 million investment demonstrates our government’s commitment to improving the safety and efficiency of our roads,” said NSW Senator Deborah O’Neill.
“These upgrades will improve traffic flow and road safety, as well as deliver long-term benefits to residents and businesses alike.”
A Review of Environmental Factors (REF) and concept designs for the proposed intersection upgrades are expected to be placed on display for public feedback by late 2025.
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