Design work begins for Picton bypass
The Albanese and Minns Labor governments are pushing ahead with design and assessment works for a Picton Bypass after years of delay under the former Liberal-Nationals Government.
In a significant step forward for the $18.6 million project, MRB Technical Services has been awarded the contract to deliver a concept design and environmental assessment.
Once this important work is ready, it will be made available for community feedback.
The funding allows formal planning to begin for a future bypass, taking traffic away from the centre of Picton, with motorists and heavy vehicles offered an alternative route linking Thirlmere and Tahmoor with the Hume Motorway via Picton Road.
Not only will a bypass remove traffic, it will massively improve safety in the town centre, while also providing a much-needed alternative access route through the area during times of flooding and fire.
MRB Technical Services has undertaken design work on several projects across New South Wales, including the New Richmond Bridge Stage 1 and The Horsley Drive.
A concept design is expected to be available for public feedback in late 2026 after ground investigations to inform the design began in late September 2025.
For more information, visit www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/current-projects/picton-bypass.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
“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.”
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison:
“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.”
Quotes attributable to the State Member for Wollondilly Judy Hannan:
“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.”
Quotes attributable to Labor spokesperson for the state seat of Wollondilly, Mark Buttigieg:
“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 stalled.
“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.”