Upper Hunter motorists are set to benefit from safer, stronger and more reliable journeys, with work about to begin on a major $6.3 million upgrade to Wybong Road near Sandy Hollow.
Around 33 kilometres west of Muswellbrook, this critical regional corridor carries approximately 1,800 vehicles each day and plays an important role in connecting local communities, freight operators and industry.
The project forms part of the Minns Labor Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening regional road networks, making them more durable, more resilient to flooding and better equipped to support growing regional communities.
Once complete, Wybong Road will feature a wider carriageway and significantly improved flood immunity, reducing closures and maintaining access during severe weather events.
Key works include widening and reshaping the road, installing a new box culvert across Pheeneys Creek, safety barriers, and upgraded line marking and signage to improve safety for all road users.
Construction is scheduled to begin Monday 2 March. During daytime work, a reduced speed limit of 40km/h will be in place under stop/go traffic control. At night, both lanes will remain open with a reduced speed of 60km/h.
A road closure is scheduled for Wybong Road after Easter for 13 weeks with a permanent detour along Reedy Creek Rd in place.
Transport for NSW has completed tree clearing and improvements along Reedy Creek Rd to allow for oversize overmass (OSOM) movements.
Work is expected to be completed by July 2026, weather permitting and will be carried out between 7am and 5pm Monday to Friday and every second weekend.
Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley:
“For those living and working in Denman, Merriwa and the surrounding rural areas, these roads aren’t optional extras. They are part of everyday life, connecting people to jobs, schools, services and each other.
“Some of the Hunter’s most picturesque and proudly regional communities are linked by stretches of road that have been neglected for far too long. That puts pressure on families, businesses and farmers who rely on them daily.
“The Minns Labor Government is committed to delivering safer, smoother roads for communities across the Hunter – roads that don’t damage vehicles, compromise safety or make everyday travel harder than it needs to be. That’s why these upgrades are so important.”
NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison:
“Wybong Road is a vital link for the Upper Hunter, and locals know just how disruptive flooding and road closures can be.
“This investment will deliver a stronger, safer and more flood-resilient road – reducing closures and improving reliability for the 1,800 vehicles that rely on it every day, including freight and heavy vehicles.
“I’m pleased to see work getting underway on this important upgrade, because resilient regional roads aren’t a luxury, they’re essential.”
NSW Labor Spokesperson for Upper Hunter, Emily Suvaal:
“The NSW Government is continuing to invest in regional and rural road networks to deliver stronger, more resilient infrastructure that keeps communities connected.
“Wybong Road carries around 1,800 vehicles each day, including heavy freight, so this upgrade is a significant win for local residents, industry and the broader Upper Hunter economy.
“By improving flood resilience and reliability, this project will help ensure communities can stay connected during severe weather events.”