Hunter motorists are getting a taste of the future, with the first widened section on the Hexham Straight now open to traffic with three lanes in each direction. This will also affect Northern Rivers residents travelling to Sydney.

The federal and state governments are collectively investing $2.2 billion in the M1 to Raymond Terrace extension and the Hexham Straight Widening to reduce congestion and improve safety for all road users.

The Australian Government is contributing over $1.79 billion towards the project, with the NSW Government contributing $448 million.

Motorists turning left onto Maitland Road from the Newcastle Inner City Bypass are now benefiting from an additional lane for about 650 metres, including an extension to the turning lane from the bypass.

There is also an additional lane for inbound traffic on Maitland Road from about 650 metres north of the bypass, including more space for traffic turning right onto the Newcastle Inner City Bypass.

The latest works also include an upgrade to the traffic lights at the intersection of the Newcastle Inner City Bypass and Old Maitland Road, while the U-turn facility there is also complete.

In addition, a new pedestrian crossing and bus stops in front of St Joseph’s Calvary Aged Care will also be put in place.

When complete, the Hexham Straight will comprise three lanes in each direction for its entire six-kilometre length, from the Newcastle Inner City Bypass to Hexham Bridge.

This will deliver more reliable travel times for freight and improve safety for all road users, including cyclists and pedestrians.

The project is expected to open to traffic in 2026. `

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said, “This is a significant milestone for the Hexham Straight Widening project, with motorists getting access to three lanes in each direction, even if only for part of the journey.

“This is a taste of things to come, with the project still on track to be completed and open to traffic in 2026.

“The Australian Government is getting on with the job of delivering for the Hunter, not only through this project but also the broader M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace, the Singleton Bypass, and plans for the Muswellbrook Bypass and the westbound flyover at Maitland.”

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon said, “This is a milestone moment for our region and the more than 50,000 motorists who travel this stretch of road every single day.

“For too long, Hexham straight has been a notorious bottleneck. Today, we are opening the first stage of a safer, smoother, and more efficient journey for commuters.

“This project is a great example of how government investment in infrastructure can change lives and support local economies – reducing congestion, cutting travel times, boosting road safety, and unlocking freight routes.

“I am proud to be part of an Albanese Labor Government that is delivering the infrastructure that Novocastrians deserve.”

State Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said, "The Hunter is the economic powerhouse of NSW, and this project demonstrates our government's commitment to ensuring our region has the world-class infrastructure it deserves.

"The Hexham Straight is a vital link in our broader Hunter transport network, connecting our growing residential areas with major employment hubs, the Port of Newcastle, and key industrial precincts.

"This $2.2 billion investment shows what can be achieved when governments work together with a shared vision for the Hunter's future.”

State Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said, “The Hexham Straight Widening is part of a suite of road projects that are transforming the Hunter road network.

“This project will help thousands of people get where they’re going more quickly and easily, helping improve their quality of life and underpinning economic growth.

“The Minns and Albanese Governments are working together to deliver infrastructure that will meet the needs of the community and motorists now and into the future.”