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Two long-anticipated infrastructure projects are now moving forward in the Hawkesbury, with the Federal Albanese and NSW Minns Labor Governments joining forces to deliver more than $600 million in road upgrades aimed at easing congestion, improving safety, and strengthening flood resilience.
Work has commenced on the enabling works for the New Richmond Bridge and the long-awaited Pitt Town Bypass — developments set to transform travel across the region for residents, visitors, and emergency services.
New Richmond Bridge Upgrades Enter Stage One
Shovels are now in the ground for Stage One of the $515 million New Richmond Bridge project, jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments.
The first stage focuses on critical road upgrades along The Driftway, Londonderry Road, and Blacktown Road to improve traffic flow and safety during flood evacuations.
Two new roundabouts will be constructed — one at Londonderry Road, with an additional southbound lane to support emergency evacuations, and another at Blacktown Road, accompanied by a new bridge over Rickabys Creek.
Stage Two will deliver a new four-lane bridge over the Hawkesbury River, around 10 metres higher than the current bridge. This will provide significant flood immunity and ensure a reliable crossing during extreme weather.
The NSW Government is preparing to release the Stage 2 Determination Report in response to community feedback, with construction scheduled to begin in 2026. Thanks to that feedback, the Albanese Government has committed extra funding for a future stage, including a Londonderry bypass and key North Richmond intersection upgrades.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Catherine King, said the project reflects a strong commitment to building reliable infrastructure.
“Once complete, stages one and two of the Richmond Bridge project will improve flood resilience, safety, and connectivity across the Hawkesbury. We’ve listened to community feedback and responded with additional investment to deliver further key upgrades,” she said.
Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, said the bridge will be a game-changer for local connectivity.
“Building a safer, flood-resilient connection across the river to North Richmond is about keeping our communities connected, even in times of crisis. This is something locals and I have long called for,” she said.
Pitt Town Bypass to Ease Local Congestion
Work is also advancing on the $100 million Pitt Town Bypass, a NSW Government-funded project designed to divert through-traffic, including heavy vehicles, away from Pitt Town’s village centre.
The 950-metre route will connect Pitt Town Road and Cattai Road via two new roundabouts and a bridge over Hortons Creek. By reducing the volume of vehicles travelling through the township, the bypass will cut travel times, ease congestion, and improve access for emergency services — a long-standing concern for locals.
Abergeldie Complex Infrastructure has been awarded the construction contract and will soon begin geotechnical and survey work. Major works are set to start on 1 August 2026, with the bypass scheduled to open by the end of that year.
NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison, said the bypass will have a lasting impact.
“The Pitt Town Bypass will take pressure off local roads and make it easier for emergency services to do their job. These are practical upgrades that will benefit communities for decades,” she said.
Looking Ahead
With the New Richmond Bridge and Pitt Town Bypass both moving forward, the Hawkesbury is on the cusp of a major transport transformation.
When complete, these projects promise faster, safer, and more reliable journeys — and the reassurance that, even in severe weather, the region will remain connected.
