Coulsons Creek Road in the Upper Hunter (northwest of Newcastle) is open to traffic for the first time in almost five years.

A $48.26 million project to repair and upgrade the road has now been completed, delivering improved road safety and resilience for locals, visitors and freight operators.

The Albanese Labor Government provided $38.6 million and the Minns Labor Government $9.66 million for the repairs to be carried out on this vital regional route.

Despite earlier attempts to repair damage caused by severe weather, the road was closed to all traffic in January 2021 after geotechnical inspections detected serious cracking extending beyond the road’s centre line.

This prompted Upper Hunter Shire Council to involve Transport for NSW, Infrastructure NSW and Public Works Advisory in a new design for the road, which included soil nailing to stablilise the slopes supporting the road.

This will ensure Coulsons Creek Road can better withstand future severe weather events.

The upgrade features improved drainage, protection against rock falls, new safety barriers, signage and line markings.

This project began in March 2024, with Daracon Group appointed to carry out the work.

Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“Like others, I was shocked to see the significant damage that had been done to Coulsons Creek Road. This re-opening has only happened because the state and federal Labor Governments stepped in to both fund and properly repair this important road for the local community.

“The re-opening of this route is a massive milestone for the Upper Hunter and is especially important for the region’s primary producers, connecting Merriwa and Willow Tree.

“It will cut travel times for all road users and improve safety by reducing traffic volumes on the alternate routes drivers used while Coulsons Creek Road was closed.”

Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison:

“While it has taken some time to achieve, this is a good outcome for the Upper Hunter, showcasing cooperation between all three levels of government and harnessing the expertise of multiple state agencies.

“This work means Coulsons Creek Road is not only fit for purpose, but it has also been rebuilt to withstand future severe weather events.

“It’s fantastic to see the road open to traffic, re-establishing a link between the New England and Golden highways.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi:

“The people of the Upper Hunter have waited patiently for this project to be completed and that patience is finally being rewarded.

“The upgraded road will also deliver improved safety for motorists, with improved drainage, protection against rock falls, new barriers, signage and line marking.

“This work will also ensure the road will be able to better cope with heavy rainfall in the years ahead.”

Quotes attributable to Duty MLC for the state seat of Upper Hunter, Emily Suvaal:

“Three NSW Government agencies have been working alongside the Upper Hunter Shire Council to build a more resilient Coulsons Creek Road.

“This project allows the road to carry all traffic – including B-doubles – which is a boon for local agriculture.

“The reopening of the road will result in time and money savings for all road users, but especially for freight operators.”

Quotes attributable to the Mayor of the Upper Hunter Shire Maurice Collison:

“The reopening marks an important milestone for communities on both sides of the range.

“This road is incredibly important to our region.

"Reopening Coulsons Creek Road restores a key connection that people rely on for work, trade and daily travel, and it reflects the significant effort that has gone into rebuilding the road stronger and safer for the future.”