Benefits

The Hogbin Drive Extension will provide an effective alternative route between the southern areas of the city and the northern beaches.

Coffs Harbour residents can expect traffic relief in the Jetty restaurants precinct and much better flow along the Pacific Highway.

Economic studies carried out by Council and confirmed by the RTA show high cost benefit values for construction of the remaining section of the Hogbin Drive Extension. This includes significant reductionin road transport costs, accident costs and public transport operational costs.

The Hogbin Drive Extension will provide a sustainable future for the Coffs Harbour road and public transport network. Decreases in traffic congestion on the Pacific Highway will improve transport efficiency and decrease air pollution, noise pollution and fuel consumption.

The extension will reduce projected daily traffic volumes on the Pacific Highway by approximately 5,000 vehicles per day upon completion and 14,000 vehicles per day by 2011. The projected traffic volumes will be achieved, and upgrade works on the Highway will be required even if a Pacific Highway Bypass of Coffs Harbour is constructed.

Since Council opened Stage 1 of the Hogbin Drive Extension in December 2001, the road attracts in the order of 6,000 vehicles per day, mostly off the upgraded section of the Pacific Highway - Bray Street to Arthur Street.

Having two north-south arterial roads through Coffs Harbour also means there will be an alternative for emergency vehicles and essential traffic during an emergency situation where one road might become blocked.

The extension also serves to support population and employment growth expected in Coffs Harbour during the next 20 years and beyond, and to provide opportunities for development of the commercial centre that may be beneficial to both residents and tourists.

Furthermore, the Hogbin Road Extension will enhance public transport, cycleway and pedestrian accessibility.