Singleton prepares for $700 million bypass opening

The town of Singleton is preparing for the opening of a $700 million bypass designed to transform local traffic and the economy. The project features an 8km stretch of road including six bridges crossing the Hunter River floodplain.

It is estimated that the bypass will reduce town centre traffic by approximately 35 per cent, removing between 1,250 and 1,500 vehicles per hour during peak times. This includes a significant reduction in the 3,700 heavy vehicles that currently pass through the town daily. While the project aims to ease congestion near schools and retail centres, it presents economic challenges for businesses reliant on passing trade, such as cafes and service stations.

Local observers point to the nearby town of Branxton as a precedent. Following the opening of the Hunter Expressway 12 years ago, Branxton transitioned its economy to focus on residential growth and heritage tourism.