Bypass project enters the final stage

Published on 18 June 2020

The fourth and final stage of the Byron Bay bypass project is on track to start before the end of the month.

Stage four works involve reconfiguring and replacing the roundabout at the Shirley, Butler and Lawson Street intersection, renewing kerb and gutter and extending the existing shared path.

“This is a significant milestone for the bypass project, where we will see the remaining three stages of the project in progress at the same time.” Byron Bay bypass Client Representative Josh Winter said.

Local Nationals MLC Ben Franklin said it was a great milestone to see the fourth and final stage of the project now commenced.

“This has been such an important investment by the State Government. The $20 million, which includes $9.5 million from the State’s Restart NSW fund to build the bypass will help reduce traffic congestion and improve the liveability of the town,” said Mr Franklin.

“It is part of our commitment to targeted infrastructures that make our regional communities more attractive places to live and do business, and we look forward to the project completion later this year.”

The first part of construction will be focused around installing underground power lines on Shirley Street, and removing the existing concrete roundabout and median strips.

A temporary roundabout and medians will be constructed to allow for a smooth flow of traffic through the work zone.

“Unfortunately there will be some delays for locals and visitors who are coming into the Byron Bay town centre from Ewingsdale Road. The Byron community and our visitors need to be prepared for delays when travelling on Ewingsdale Road to or from the town centre.” Mr Winter said.

“This intersection is the gateway to the Byron town centre, and traffic queues at peak times are common but the work on stage 4 of the bypass will mean people will need to add a little more time to get through town.

“While two-way traffic will be maintained at all times, longer delays will likely be experienced throughout construction.”

“We’ll be making every effort to ensure the impact to traffic is minimised.”

“Stage four has been programmed to begin at what is typically the quieter time of year for Byron Bay and it is due to be finished in December to enable the bypass to open to traffic before Christmas,” Mr Winter said.

The NSW Government is investing $20 million in the Byron Bay bypass project, including $9.5 million from the Restart NSW Growing Local Economies Fund. Byron Shire Council contributed a further $4 million to the project.

For more information about the project visit www.byron.nsw.gov.au/byronbypass