🏗️Newcastle Port Upgrades for Renewables Detailed Traffic Plan

Major infrastructure upgrades are set to commence across the state road network, directly impacting Newcastle, as part of a significant NSW Government initiative to bolster renewable energy transportation. These crucial works will enable the safe and efficient movement of oversized and overmass (OSOM) components, such as wind turbine blades and transformers, from the Port of Newcastle to key Renewable Energy Zones (REZs) across New South Wales.

Transport for NSW and the Energy Corporation of NSW (EnergyCo) are collaborating on the Port to REZ (P2R) Program, which includes 19 planned road upgrades along the 320-kilometre route from the Port of Newcastle to the Central West Orana REZ. Locally, the intersection of Quayside Close and Selwyn Street in Mayfield North is slated for enhancements, with motorists expecting less than five minutes of delay and a 40km/h speed reduction. The intersection of Selwyn Street, George Street, and Industrial Drive in Mayfield North will see shoulder closures but no expected traffic impact.

Construction by BMD Constructions Pty Ltd is scheduled to begin in June 2025 and is anticipated to take approximately 12 months, subject to weather conditions. Work hours will primarily be weekdays between 7 am and 6 pm, and Saturdays from 8 am to 1 pm. Some night work may also be necessary between 6 pm and 7 am Sunday to Thursday, with affected residents to be notified in advance.

Motorists should prepare for varying traffic impacts, including temporary lane closures, road widening, the relocation of traffic signs, installation of new turn lanes, and extending drainage and culverts. New 'hardstand' pavements will also be built within the road corridor in some areas to assist OSOM vehicle navigation. While access for road users will be maintained, drivers are strongly advised to plan their journeys, allow for longer travel times, observe reduced speed limits, and follow the directions of traffic controllers to ensure safety and minimise delays.

The NSW Government has committed substantial funding, including $128.5 million from the 2024-25 NSW Budget, to the Port to Project corridor, with an additional $12 million for overtaking lanes near Merriwa. This ambitious program aligns with the state's Climate Change (Net Zero Future) Act 2023, which targets a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050, supporting the transition from coal-fired power stations to a renewable energy future.

OSOM movements from the Port of Newcastle are anticipated to increase from early 2026 for a period of approximately three years. These large vehicles will be distinguished by oversize placards and warning lights, often travelling with pilot vehicles and NSW Police escorts. Drivers are urged to provide ample space and follow all directions. Eight new pullover bays have been identified along the route to allow other vehicles to safely overtake OSOM loads.

Community engagement is ongoing, with representatives from Transport, EnergyCo, and BMD Constructions attending a community pop-up in Jerrys Plains on Thursday, July 3, 2025, from 5 pm to 7 pm at the Jerrys Plains School of Arts Hall. Consultations with councils, emergency services, and directly impacted property owners continue across the region.