More great progress has been made on the Hexham Straight Widening project on the Pacific Highway, with demolition of the old northbound bridge over Ironbark Creek/Toohrnbing now complete.

The southbound bridge over Ironbark Creek has been open to traffic since November 2024 and is currently carrying two lanes of traffic in each direction.

Construction is now underway on the second new crossing, which will become the northbound bridge.
When both structures are complete, each will carry three lanes of traffic.

The Hexham Straight Widening Project is part of the broader $2.24 billion M1 Pacific Motorway Extension to Raymond Terrace, which is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments.

The Australian Government committing $1.79 billion and the NSW Government is committing $448 million.
The project is expected to open to traffic in 2026.

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon:

“It’s great to see one of the new bridges already in operation and to see such good progress being made on the second new crossing.

“This project will help tens of thousands of people get where they are going more quickly and safely, while also being a catalyst for major economic growth in our region.

“I know Novocastrians will be so pleased to see this milestone reached and I look forward to the entire Hexham Straight Widening project being completed by next year."

Quotes attributable to State Minister for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp:

“It’s fantastic to see this progress. The Pacific Highway, or Maitland Road as it’s also known, is a vital local roadway, and this project will help thousands of people get to where they’re going more quickly and easily.

“Once complete, the Hexham Straight Widening will ensure a stronger road network for our local community, motorists and the freight industry.

“The Australian and NSW governments are proud to work together to deliver infrastructure that will meet the needs of the community and motorists now and into the future.”