Take a Walk on the Bypass

RESIDENTS are invited to see the new bypass up close on Saturday morning with a 3.5 kilometres community walk, taking in the key features of the southern section of the bypass. 

There will be a passport-style brochure people can keep as a memento and collect stamps as they cross the three bridges on the bypass.

The bypass will be open to pedestrians on Saturday. Photo: Airspeed Aviation.

Federal Member for New England Barnaby Joyce said the New England Highway was a major freight and commuter route, connecting Upper Hunter with Maitland and Newcastle.

“The New England Highway south of Scone carries 8400 vehicles a day, peaking in town at 14,000, meanwhile more than 8000 vehicles use the Kelly Street crossing every day, including 1200 heavy vehicles,” Mr Joyce said.

“With the opening of the new Scone Bypass, heavy vehicles will be able to divert past the town centre, giving local roads back to the community,” he said.

“It will reduce travel times for freight and long distance traffic, as well as boosting safety for all road users by providing an alternative route across town that is unimpeded by rail operations,” Barnaby Joyce said. 

The bypass is on track to open for traffic before Easter.

parking available at the rugby club. The event will be limited to walking (no bicycles or scooters) with access for wheelchairs and prams.

• When: 9am-12pm, Saturday, February 29, 2020. Official opening: 10am.
• Where: St Aubin’s Street bypass intersection, Scone.
• Parking: Available at the Scone Rugby Club, Aberdeen Street, Scone.
• No: Bicycles or scooters, but there will be access for wheelchairs and prams.
• Assisted travel: Buses will be available for people who can’t complete the walk. People who need mobility assistance need to register by phoning 1800 870 751 or emailing: sconebypass@daracon.com.au.