Bypass to Begin, Overpass Stalled

By Di Sneddon

WORK on the Scone bypass is set to begin on July 9.

While residents will notice some surveyors pegs in place now, Member for Upper Hunter Michael Johnsen said the July date will see the physical work begin.

The $120million project tender was awarded to Daracon by Roads and Maritime Services earlier this year.

As for the rail overpass in Scone itself, that project remains firmly in the decision making process of Upper Hunter Shire Council.

Mr Johnsen said it was up to Council to determine where this project needed to be located and once that was determined, he could then begin the funding process.

Speaking about nearby bypasses of both Muswellbrook and Singleton, Deputy Premier John Barilaro said both these projects had to go through the process.

On Muswellbrook specifically, Mr Johnsen said the preferred community route was not in the options presented for government and that he was working hard to ensure the determined route was one the community wanted.