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In a major milestone for one of regional Australia’s biggest infrastructure projects, the first phase of the multi-billion-dollar Coffs Harbour Bypass is complete.
The Coffs Harbour bypass tunnelling team working on either side of the 410-metre-long Gatelys Road Tunnel broke through the northbound tube on Monday 28 October.
Today, they have broken through the southbound tube, completing the first major phase of the three tunnels to be built as part of the bypass.
Each of the three tunnels will have two tubes, with each tube capable of carrying two lanes of traffic. There will also be room to accommodate cyclists.
The Australian Government is investing $1.76 billion towards the project, with the remaining $440 million investment provided by the New South Wales Government.
Project Spotlight: Coffs Harbour Bypass
In a sign of how quickly things are moving for the tunnelling teams, a breakthrough at the 320-metre-long Shephards Lane tunnel is expected in mid-April next year.
The work comes despite a traditional tunnel boring machine not being feasible for use on the short tunnels due to the mobilisation time and cost.
Workers will now start excavating the tunnel floor, carry out the permanent tunnel lining works, install drainage, build the pavement, and complete the fit-out of the mechanical, electrical, fire, safety and intelligent transport systems.
All the equipment will then be tested and commissioned before the bypass is opened to the public.
The bypass is expected to open to traffic in late 2026.
Feedback sought for Coffs Harbour bypass design and landscape plan
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The community have been invited to provide feedback for the Coffs Harbour bypass project’s design and landscape plan.
Coffs Harbour bypass controlled blasts carried out successfully
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The $2.2b Coffs Harbour bypass project has successfully carried out the first of the controlled blasts for cuttings in New South Wales.
