The first phase of the multi-billion-dollar Coffs Harbour Bypass in New South Wales is complete.
The project is a joint investment between the Australian and New South Wales Governments, with each funding $1.76 billion and $440 million respectively.
On 28 October, the Coffs Harbour bypass tunnelling team working on either side of the 410-metre-long Gatelys Road Tunnel broke through the northbound tube.
Since then, they have also broken through the southbound tube – completing the first major phase of the three tunnels to be built as part of the bypass.
Upon completion, each of the three tunnels will have two tubes, with each tube capable of carrying two lanes of traffic.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, commented on the significance of the project’s update.
“This is a major milestone for this nation-shaping project,” she said.
“Being able to pass through from one side of this large hill to the other is a major achievement, and I look forward to the work over the next two years as the tunnels start to take their final shape.”
A breakthrough at the 320-metre-long Shephards Lane tunnel is expected in April next year.
Project workers will now begin excavating the tunnel floor, carrying out permanent tunnel lining works, installing drainage, building the pavement and completing the fit-out of the mechanical, electrical, fire, safety and intelligent transport systems.
All the equipment will then be tested and commissioned before the bypass is opened to the public.
“It’s great to see a major tunnel project in the regions that has created 600 jobs and will remove 12,000 vehicles from the CBD,” said NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchson.
“This will reduce travel times and deliver vital safety improvements.
“I want to thank the project team for their hard work and commitment to delivering this critical piece of enabling transport infrastructure for the Coffs region and the entire country.”
The bypass is expected to open to traffic in late 2026.
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