Several intersection upgrades and three new overtaking lanes make up the first major work starting on the largest ever pavement upgrade of the Newell Highway.
The work marks the start of the $261 million joint investment from the Australian and NSW governments to widen and strengthen 27.3 kilometres of road along four priority sections between Narrabri and Moree.
The upgrade involves building entirely new sections of road as well as five new overtaking lanes, two new heavy vehicle rest areas, intersection upgrades and multiple new bridge-sized culverts for improved drainage.
The work, led by contractor Fulton Hogan, has now commenced along the first two sections, including an eight-kilometre stretch about three kilometres south of Moree, and a 4.5-kilometre stretch about 46 kilometres north of Narrabri, through Bellata.
The Newell Highway heavy duty pavement upgrade forms part of the Australian and NSW governments' $1.7 billion commitment to upgrading the longest highway with inland connections to both Victoria and Queensland.
Work is taking place Monday to Friday between 7am and 6pm, excluding public holidays, and on alternate weekends between 7am and 6pm for the duration of the project.
There will be some temporary traffic changes in place including local intersection and lane closures, traffic control including short stoppages and varying speed restrictions from 40 kilometres an hour during work hours.
