Transport for NSW has shelved options to build a Bulli bypass through the escarpment. Photo: NSW Transport.
Plans for a bypass of the Bulli town centre via the escarpment have been ruled out due to complex construction challenges and high costs.
Transport for NSW (TfNSW) has been investigating the feasibility of extending Memorial Drive to provide a bypass of the town, as well as other options to reduce traffic congestion and improve travel reliability in the Bulli area.
TfNSW Partnerships and Integration South executive director Cassandra Ffrench said the investigations had ruled out road connections via the Illawarra Escarpment to the M1 Princes Motorway or Bulli Pass including tunnel and bridge options.
“The investigations found all escarpment connections would have significant environmental and cultural impacts on sensitive areas such as the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area and Illawarra Grevillea Park,” Ms Ffrench said.
“The steep terrain and history of underground coal mining also create complex engineering challenges that would make construction highly difficult and costly.
“Ruling out escarpment routes brings us a step closer to identifying the right solution to improve safety and travel reliability on the local road network.”
Work is continuing to explore other bypass options that start at Memorial Drive and extend north, with potential end points at various intersections along the corridor, including Lawrence Hargrave Drive.
Ms Ffrench said ongoing investigation work would help ensure that any future upgrades were effective and delivered real benefits for all road users.
“If a bypass is not found to be the most suitable solution, we still need a plan to improve safety and traffic flow. Any outcome needs to be practical, fit the local area and deliver genuine long-term benefits,” said Ms Ffrench.
The NSW Government has provided $20 million to support the investigations but at this stage, no funding has been allocated to build the bypass.
An options report summarising findings will be released in 2026, with the community invited to provide feedback to help shape the final recommendations.
Transport has recently completed work to improve traffic flow through Bulli, including additional parking, enhanced pedestrian facilities, placemaking treatments, extended clearway hours and changes to traffic flow along the Princes Highway, Station and Railway streets and Park Road.
Click here to read TfNSW’s latest information on the Bulli bypass project.
