This project involves the elevation of the New England Highway over the intersection with Weakleys Drive and the extension of Weakleys Drive to a new roundabout at Glenwood Drive.
The RTA has contracted the FRH Group to undertake the construction of the project. Construction commenced in March 2007 and completion is currently scheduled for late 2008 (weather permitting).
Background
The Weakleys Drive interchange project is funded by the Australian Government under the AusLink National Transport Plan. The estimated cost of the project is $51.8 million.
The project, together with the State Government funded $7 million Link Road between Thornton and Beresfield (Glenwood Drive), will eliminate three signalised intersections for through traffic on the New England Highway.
Two feasible options to cater for future traffic flows were displayed in July 2004. Following consideration of community feedback and technical studies, a preferred option was selected.
Features
The project includes the following features:
Elevation of the New England Highway over the intersection with Weakleys Drive.
Extension of Weakleys Drive to a new roundabout at Glenwood Drive.
Signalised intersection of Weakleys Drive beneath the New England Highway, with on/off ramps to and from the highway.
Removal of the existing traffic signals at Thornton Road, Weakleys Drive and Anderson Drive for through traffic on the New England Highway.
Left turn in/out only at Thornton Road with the New England Highway off-ramp.
Left turn out only at Anderson Drive onto the New England Highway.
A plan of the intersection is available to view via the links below.
Benefits
What has happened?
1994 – Consideration of options to meet short term and long term traffic needs in this area.
1996 – Traffic signals installed at the three intersections as a short term measure.
July 2003 – Link road between Thornton and Beresfield (Glenwood Drive) completed.
July to August 2004 – Exhibition of options for the interchange.
August 2005 – Review of Environmental Factors report approved for preferred option.
December 2006 – Construction contract awarded to FRH Group Pty Ltd.
March 2007 – Construction commenced.
Community consultation
The RTA and FRH Group will use a variety of communication tools to keep the public informed of the progress of the work and impacts on traffic.
Further information
For further information about the project, please contact the project manager, Kidner Kumaran on (02) 4924 0637 or email Kidner_Kumaran@rta.nsw.gov.au.
Postal address:
Roads and Traffic Authority
Locked bag 30
NEWCASTLE NSW 2300
Community information line: 1800 354 997 (toll free)
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