Early work on the upgrade began in November 2020, with the main works commencing in January this year.

READ MORE: Next stage of Great Western Highway upgrade to get under way between Kelso and Raglan

The project to expand the highway is now facing delays due to lockdowns across the state.

Local member and Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the impacts extended to resources and workers.

"There is no doubt, wet weather has put it on hold, but also the fact that Transport have limited the movement of workers," he said.

"At the moment, projects like that are on hold, but once we're allowed to move again, once we see regional NSW opening up again, these are the kind of projects that are going to be critical to restarting regional NSW and providing the jobs and the economic drive that is needed in the local areas.

"This is a $45 million project, it's one that will go for another 18 months to two years, and we all know that at the end of the project it is going to well and truly make the entrance to the city of Bathurst something to be proud of."

READ MORE: Wet run slows highway work at Raglan, but still on schedule

It is possible that the delays from the lockdown, and recent wet weather, will see the highway still under construction beyond the estimated finish date.

"At this stage it's on schedule to finish in 2023, but it will depend on weather, it will depend when we can get the contractors back on site and continue the work again," Mr Toole said.

"At the moment it's just wait and see, like many roads projects across the area."

The entry into Raglan will be significantly improved as a result of this project.

There will be two lanes in both directions from Ashworth Drive to Napoleon Street, and two lanes eastbound and one lane westbound from Napoleon Street to the east of Ceramic Avenue.

There will also be new turning paths at highway intersections and traffic lights installed at the PJ Moodie Memorial Drive intersection, and a shared pedestrian/bicycle footpath will be constructed from Ashworth Drive to Eugenie Street.

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