The federal government has agreed to fund half of the project, committing $4.53m to the new roundabout on Country Rd.

Tamworth mayor Col Murray called it a “critical piece of infrastructure”.

“It’s one of those key investments that unlocks future growth and potential for the city,” he said.

“It’s a very, very large roundabout and very expensive due to the nature of the power lines and the topography, and the fact it’s B-Triple capable.

“In the very near future we’ll have a large business park development that’s about to start, so there’ll be lots of activity in this area.”

The roundabout is also another key stepping stone towards council’s dream of turning the airport in to an international freight hub.

New England MP Barnaby Joyce said the massive roundabout went “hand in glove” with the future growth of Tamworth.

“This shows our commitment to a growing airport precinct,” Mr Joyce said.

“We now have a real opportunity to connect our major arterial highways used by heavy vehicle transport operators to create the corridor of commerce between capital cities to our north and south.”

Council has submitted grant applications to the NSW government, and Cr Murray is “very confident the state will support the project”.

The detail plans have almost been completed and council hopes to have construction beginning around Christmas.