Work is set to begin next month on a $14 million upgrade to Haussman Drive in Thornton, aimed at improving traffic flow and safety on one of Maitland’s busiest roads.
The project includes duplication of Haussman Drive between Raymond Terrace Road and Taylor Avenue, expanding the corridor to two lanes in each direction. The upgrade is jointly funded by the Federal Government and Maitland City Council, each contributing more than $3.74 million under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.
An additional $6.9 million investment from the New South Wales Government and council will deliver a new roundabout at the intersection of Haussman Drive and Taylor Avenue.
The improvements are expected to ease congestion, particularly for motorists exiting Thornton via Taylor Avenue, and reduce pressure on peak-hour traffic along Haussman Drive.
Further works are also planned as part of the Thornton North development, subject to future funding. These include traffic lights at the Raymond Terrace Road intersection and a shared path linking key local corridors.
Construction will be managed to minimise disruption where possible, with updated traffic conditions communicated through Live Traffic.
Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain, said the project would deliver long-awaited improvements for the area.
“The Federal Government is partnering with Maitland City Council to deliver this duplication of Haussman Drive,” McBain said.
“We are proud to support this project through the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, which also aims to reduce the administrative burden on councils and other levels of government.”
New South Wales Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully, said the upgrade reflects coordinated investment across governments.
“It’s great to see all levels of government working together to deliver lasting benefits for Maitland,” Scully said.
“These upgrades will ease traffic, improve safety and support this fast-growing community.”
New South Wales Minister for Roads and Member for Maitland, Jenny Aitchison, said the project responds to rapid population growth in the area.
“Thornton and Chisholm have been among the fastest growing areas in the state, and this upgrade will help ensure road infrastructure keeps pace,” Aitchison said.
Member for Paterson, Meryl Swanson, said the works would support both safety and network efficiency.
“Projects like the duplication and new roundabout demonstrate what can be achieved when all levels of government work together to deliver practical infrastructure,” Swanson said.
Mayor of Maitland, Philip Penfold, said the project would improve traffic conditions in a key growth area.
“These upgrades will improve traffic flow in one of Maitland’s busiest suburbs,” Penfold said.
“We know more needs to be done, particularly at the intersection with Raymond Terrace Road, and we will continue working with state and federal partners to secure further funding.”
