WORK started on the Korora section of the Coffs Harbour Bypass on Monday 22 August, with construction company Quickway, engaged by Transport for NSW, beginning the digging-in on close to $50 million in utility works.

The site is officially referred to as the northern utility relocation and sees the preparation work begin, readying for major construction expected to start in 2023, weather permitting.

The highway through this section will be widened to include the Solitary Islands Way connection, a Transport for NSW spokesperson told News Of The Area.

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“The work currently on-site is to move water mains, sewer, telecommunication lines and 66kV and 11kV power lines outside of the new road footprint.

“It also involves work such as clearing vegetation, establishing ancillary sites and building access tracks.

“Some of the utility relocation will occur outside of the project boundary, for example along James Small Drive.

“The site starts at Charlesworth Bay Drive and continues along the existing highway to where it meets the already upgraded highway at Sapphire.

“Work will occur to the west and the east of the existing highway, including James Small Drive near Kororo Public School.

“Quickway is a Sydney-based construction company and will engage local subcontractors to get the job done, creating jobs for locals,” said the spokesperson.

It is expected Quickway will be working on the Korora section for the next ten to twelve months.

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said it was exciting to see work start on the Korora section of the Coffs Harbour Bypass on 22 August.

“The fourteen-kilometre bypass will include three tunnels, which is a major win because it delivers the best outcome for the community,” Mr Singh said.

“The Coffs Harbour Bypass will improve safety significantly by diverting thousands of vehicles out of the heart of town and deliver a faster commute for motorists who will be able to avoid up to twelve sets of traffic lights.”

Transport for NSW is already carrying out significant work for the bypass, including at-house noise treatments, relocating essential utilities around Coramba Road and Stadium Drive, structural removals and environmental work.

The bypass is expected to be open to traffic from late 2026 and scheduled to be fully completed in late 2027.

The $2.2 billion Coffs Harbour Bypass project is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments on an 80:20 basis.

By Andrea FERRARI