Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey was in Gunnedah on Friday and said work was originally expected to start work in January 2019.

“This is a significant project that will reduce congestion on local roads, providing safer traffic solutions for now and well into the future as the region continues to grow,” Mrs Pavey said.

“This project will unleash and unlock the potential of a very important part of NSW.”

The long-awaited road-over-rail bridge will enable an uninterrupted flow of traffic and provide a suitable route for heavy vehicles and easy access to all parts of town for emergency services.

Gunnedah shire mayor Jamie Chaffey said the project would benefit both Gunnedah and the region as it would alleviate the “pinch-point”.

The $62 million project is funded under the NSW Government’s Bridges for the Bush program and Daracon Group has been contracted by Roads and Maritime Services to deliver the project.

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Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson said the overpass design included a shared pedestrian and cyclist path on the eastern side of the bridge and a new roundabout at the intersection of the Oxley Highway and View Street. Blackjack Creek will also be realigned from the culvert on the highway to the railway line on New Street.

Early works will include the removal of homes at 2 and 4 Barber Street, the installation of site offices and the work compound, boundary fencing, access tracks, and mobilisation of large equipment.

Work will be carried out from 7am-6pm, Monday-Friday, and 8am-1pm on Saturdays. Work will be suspended from December 24, 2018 to January 6, 2019.

The rail overpass is expected to be completed by mid-2021.