Planning gets underway for a future bypass road through Picton NSW

Planning for a future Picton Bypass in New South Wales is moving forward as the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments push ahead with design and assessment works. 

MRB Technical Services has been awarded the contract to undertake concept design and environmental assessment for the approximately $18.6 million project. 

Ground investigations commenced in late September of this year, with findings to help inform project design. A concept design for the proposed bypass will be available for public exhibition and feedback in late 2026. 

“We are proud to be working with the Minns Labor Government to keep this important project for Picton and the Southern Highlands moving. 

“Early planning is a critical step. It means the community can finally see what a bypass would mean for their community and how it would improve safety, reduce congestion and strengthen resilience during emergencies. 

“This work reflects our commitment to better, safer and more reliable connections for communities right across Australia,” Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said. 

“We are getting on with the job of designing a future bypass for Picton. 

“This is essential planning work that is needed to ensure we deliver the best outcome and design for communities in the area and the local environment,” NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said. 

The joint funding allocation from the Australian and New South Wales Governments enables formal planning to get underway on the future bypass that will take traffic away from the centre of Picton, with motorists and heavy vehicles provided with an alternative route linking Thirlmere and Tahmoor with the Hume Motorway via Picton Road. 

The proposed bypass road will remove traffic as well as improve safety in the town centre while, at the same time, provide a much-needed alternative access route through the area during times of flooding and fire. 

“The Picton community has waited a long time for progress on a bypass and it is positive to see design work now underway. 

“I know how important this project is for families, local businesses and emergency services. 

“I welcome this step forward and look forward to continuing to advocate for the best outcome for our community,” State Member for Wollondilly Judy Hannan said. 

“This is what happens when you have governments that listen. 

“The community has been calling for a safer, more efficient route around Picton, and Labor is delivering progress where the former government failed. 

“This early planning work puts the region on the path to a safer town centre, better travel times and a more resilient road network during floods and fires. 

“The Minns Labor Government will keep working with locals to make sure the final design reflects the needs and character of the Picton area,” Labor spokesperson for the state seat of Wollondilly Mark Buttigieg said. 

Source: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; NSW Government – Media Releases; Transport for NSW