Mayors working together as bypasses progress in Singleton and Muswellb

Published on 30 June 2022

With highway bypasses in Singleton and Muswellbrook likely to be under construction by the end of the year, the mayors, general managers and State and Federal members have met to discuss the future of both projects.

Representatives from Transport for NSW were also in attendance to provide updates following further funding allocations in last week’s State budget.

The meeting included Mayor of Singleton Cr Sue Moore, Deputy Mayor of Singleton Cr Tony Jarrett, Singleton Council general manager Jason Linnane, Mayor of Muswellbrook Cr Steve Reynolds, Muswellbrook Shire Council general manager Fiona Plesman, Member for Upper Hunter Dave Layzell and Federal Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi.

The meeting was timely as the bypass projects continue to be a high priority for residents under the adopted Create Singleton 2032 Community Strategic Plan (CSP) and the Muswellbrook Shire Council Community Strategic Plan. 

Mayor of Singleton, Cr Sue Moore said it was appropriate for Singleton and Muswellbrook councils to work together on the delivery of the projects, as well as ensure the best social and economic outcomes for both communities with future uses of the existing roadway.

“I can understand that many people are questioning whether progress is being made on the bypasses, and Transport for NSW has provided a thorough overview of the work that is happening and what needs to be done to allow construction to commence,” she said.

“We’ve been told we’ll start seeing works on the ground later this year, and construction will take three years.

“At the same time, we need to start planning now for the opportunities the bypass will bring to encourage people into our towns to build on economic and social development.”

Muswellbrook Shire Council’s General Manager Fiona Plesman said “after a very long wait, the communities of Muswellbrook Shire can be confident that the bypass will be delivered by the end of 2026.”