The Minns Labor Government is getting on with much-needed improvements to the Oxley Highway, with community consultation under way on vital traffic upgrades at 'The Port Macquarie Donut' interchange with the Pacific Highway.
The consultation forms part of the Government's $20 million investment for the first stage of a major upgrade at the interchange to address traffic queuing, safety and congestion at this well-known pinch point.
The Minns Government recognises that Port Macquarie Hastings region is fast growing and needs infrastructure investment to help build this community. Around 30,000 vehicles using this section of the highway every day.
The $20 million investment covers the design and delivery of improvements to the Interchange.
Stage one of the preferred proposal outlined in the Review of Environmental Factors includes:
- adding two westbound lanes between the roundabout and Billabong Drive
- installing traffic lights on all roundabout legs
- new line marking to streamline traffic flow.
Construction on stage one is expected to start in early 2027, with works expected to take around two years.
This project forms part of the Oxley Highway Future Growth Project and was accelerated due to the interchange operating above its designed traffic capacity, resulting in congestion during peak hours.
This project will improve safety and increase capacity to keep traffic flowing smoothly at the interchange.
The NSW Government previously completed short-term improvements at the intersection in late 2024 to relieve immediate pressure while long-term solutions were developed. Improvements included extending the approach lane to the roundabout from the northbound exit ramp.
Transport for NSW is inviting the community to have their say on the upgrade that will make the intersection safer and faster for all road users.
Community feedback is open now. To view the proposal and provide input, visit the Transport for NSW website.
Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
"We're getting on with the job of building safer and more efficient roads across regional NSW.
"This upgrade will cut queues, save time and improve safety at one of the most important intersections on the Mid North Coast.
"The local community has told us this intersection is a pain point and we're acting with a smart, staged upgrade that will deliver results. So far, we've increased capacity on the Northbound ramps.
"We are inviting motorists to have their say on the proposed design, and all feedback will be considered before we take the next steps."
Labor spokesperson for Port Macquarie Cameron Murphy said:
"Whether you're heading to work, doing the school run, or driving through on holidays, everyone in Port Macquarie knows how frustrating this intersection can be. That's why we're focused on real, practical upgrades that will make it safer and more efficient.
"This is about listening to the community and acting. The consultation process is now open, and I strongly encourage everyone to get involved and have their say.
"Stage one will fix some of the worst choke points and set the foundation for even bigger improvements down the track. We're serious about getting this right - and that starts with hearing directly from road users."
