Rockvale Road Upgrade

Project typeRoad reconstruction
Project valueTransport for NSW Towards Zero Safety Program Round 2 & SRV
Contractor nameStripes Group
Completion Date31 March 2026

The Rockvale Road Upgrade is a critical infrastructure project aimed at improving safety, accessibility, and resilience along a key transport corridor connecting Armidale, Guyra, and Ebor. The upgrade spans approximately 1.85 km and includes:

Realignment and gradient reduction
Road widening and sealing
Increased culvert capacity
Enhanced stormwater drainage

This work will significantly improve visibility and reduce hazards for all road users, including freight operators, agricultural vehicles, and emergency services.

Rockvale Road is a designated B-double route and a vital link for livestock transport, freight, and rural communities. It also serves as a strategic bypass during major incidents on primary routes. Despite low residential density, its role in regional connectivity and economic activity is substantial.

What's involved

The upgrade includes:

Site clearing and environmental controls (e.g. erosion control, revegetation)
Design, surveying, auditing, and ecological assessments
Road base preparation with geofabric where required
Drainage infrastructure (box culverts, pipes, headwalls, table drains)
Pavement testing and single coat sealing (14/10)
Installation of safety infrastructure (barriers, signage, line marking)

Impacts and mitigation

Traffic: Temporary detours and traffic control measures will be in place. Water crossing bypasses will be formed to minimise disruption.

Residents & road users: With only a few habited properties and approx. 80 vehicles per day, direct impact is limited. However, all users will benefit from safer, more reliable access.

Project updates

13 August 2025

Tree clearing and topsoil removal have commenced, involving the scraping of roadside edges and clearing of debris to support the initial widening of the road.

Over the coming month, early earthworks will continue, focusing on further widening efforts and progressing into construction of the road’s base layer.