Priority Stage 1 of the Avoca Drive Upgrade progresses towards construction

The concept design for the priority Stage 1 of the $130 million Avoca Drive Upgrade in New South Wales has been released, and Avoca locals are encouraged to have their say.

Avoca Drive is a key east-west corridor on the Central Coast and it carries about 26,000 vehicles each day, making it a major congestion point.

The Minns Labor Government announced in 2024 that the upgrade is going to be delivered in stages, with the priority first stage works to focus on upgrading Avoca Drive between the Bungoona Road / Carrack Road and Joalah Road / Killuna Road intersections.

“The Minns Labor Government is getting on with delivering much-needed upgrades to key regional road corridors like Avoca Drive.

“We’ve listened to the Central Coast community about the need to improve Avoca Drive, and this priority stage one upgrade will help support safer and more efficient travel now and into the future.

“I encourage locals to review the designs and provide their feedback to help ensure this project delivers the best possible outcome for local residents, businesses and road users,” NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said.

Stage 1 works are backed by $100 million from the Australian Government and $30 million from the New South Wales Government.

The upgrade is proposed to include:

• Widening Avoca Drive to two lanes in each direction between Bungoona Road / Carrack Road and Joalah Road / Killuna Road intersections
• Upgrading three intersections along Avoca Drive
• Building new pedestrian crossings at all new signalised intersections
• Removing on-street parking
• Delivering active and public transport connections through the Kincumber township

A concept design as well as a Review of Environmental Factors (REF) have been prepared to identify potential impacts and proposed mitigation measures for Stage 1 of the Avoca Drive Upgrade. The REF includes feedback gathered during the strategic design options display and additional consultation with local residents and businesses.

The community can provide their feedback on the concept design and REF by 12 June 2026.

“The bumper-to-bumper traffic on Avoca Drive is a daily frustration for locals living on the Central Coast. We’ve listened and we’re getting on with fixing it.

“Whether you’re heading to work, taking the kids to sport, or ducking to the shops before they close, this upgrade is about making everyday life a little easier.

“We’re getting on with delivering the infrastructure growing Central Coast communities need, while making sure locals have the opportunity to help shape the project through community feedback,” NSW Minister for Central Coast David Harris said.

All feedback received during this consultation period will be considered by Transport for NSW, who will continue consulting with the community as the project progresses.

Transport for NSW is also reviewing opportunities to carry out early works to enable more efficient construction staging and help reduce potential traffic impacts during the project’s delivery phase.

As part of early works, a new roundabout is going to be constructed at the Bungoona Road / Kincumber Street intersection alongside noise treatment to properties impacted by the project and utility adjustments as needed.

Early works are expected to begin in late 2026. Main construction on the priority first stage is anticipated to commence in 2027.

“The Albanese Labor Government is committed to delivering infrastructure improvements in our regions.

“Avoca Drive is a key east-west link used by around 26,000 vehicles per day.

“It’s in desperate need of an upgrade, which is why we have invested $100 million to improve safety, reduce congestion and deliver better connections.

“This project is a great example of the Albanese and Minns Governments working together to deliver the infrastructure Central Coast communities have been waiting for,” Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid said.

Source: NSW Government – Media Releases; Transport for NSW (1, 2)