Many of us are set to travel over the next few weeks, but if you are heading to the South Coast there are some changes to be aware of when you’re planning your trip.
The long-awaited South Batemans Bay Link Road, which connects Glenella Road with the Princes Highway is open to traffic (as of 19 December).
The new link consists of a new roundabout on the Princes Highway and a new two-lane road, connecting to the existing Glenella Road, to enable motorists to travel down to join George Bass Drive at Batehaven.
The South Batemans Bay Link Road is expected to reduce congestion on Beach Road from Batemans Bay to Batehaven.
Member for Bega Doctor Michael Holland said the upgrade would make a difference for motorists.
“The extension to Glenella Road will provide motorists with a critical connection between the existing Glenella Road and the Princes Highway while reducing congestion for local residents and visitors,” he said.
A spokesperson for Transport for NSW thanked motorists and the community for their patience throughout the work.
“The end result has been well worth the wait,” the spokesperson said.
“Minor work will continue over the coming months as we install fauna crossings and landscaping.
“Final finishing work, such as placing the final seal and line marking, is scheduled for April 2024, weather permitting.”
The speed limit will remain at 60 km/h.
Changed traffic conditions will be in place on the Kings Highway at Misty Mountain, as construction of the new eastbound overtaking lane is closed down over Christmas.
The changes will come into effect from Friday (22 December) and last until Monday (8 January), weather permitting.
During that period, stop/slow traffic conditions will be removed, and one lane will be open in both directions to help motorists pass through the area smoothly.
A reduced speed limit of 60 km/h will remain in place for the safety of motorists.
Another stretch that reached a milestone was the Nelligen Bridge, with work on two elements now completed.
The works are part of a project to construct a new two-lane bridge on the Kings Highway where it crosses the Clyde River at Nelligen, on the NSW South Coast, as well as a community space.
The upgraded road alignment between Thule Road and Reid Street was opened earlier this year, while the new Kings Highway and Wharf Street intersection was also opened.
The new bridge opened ahead of schedule to motorists in February 2023.
In the Bega Valley, Big Jack Mountain Road will also reopen before Christmas Day.
“This is the final stage in a series of restoration works undertaken to stabilise embankments and repair road infrastructure damage due to multiple flood events,” a Bega Valley Shire Council spokesperson said.
It will reopen to traffic at 6 am on Saturday (23 December), after works to construct a retaining wall within the road closure area of Big Jack Mountain Road are completed.
Travellers can check the Life Traffic website or app, or call 132 701, for information about road conditions.