Major upgrade revealed for Bargara’s Hughes Road intersection

Months of closures and detours are over for Bargara drivers, with a major new roundabout at Hughes Road now open.

The Hughes Road roundabout is complete.

Hughes Road has reopened after a $4.1 million upgrade delivered a new roundabout to improve safety, ease congestion and support Bargara’s rapid residential growth.

The newly completed Hughes Road and Blain Street intersection features a roundabout designed to support the area’s continued growth, including the extension of Blain Street further west. Pedestrian and cyclist safety has also been considered, with new crossings installed to better connect emerging estates to established neighbourhoods.

The roadworks — which shut off access along a key stretch of Hughes Road for months — also included a 650m upgrade to the existing road surface.

Bundaberg Regional Council stabilised the pavement, laid a fresh asphalt running layer and completed new line marking while access was restricted.

Bundaberg Mayor Helen Blackburn said the works were an investment in safety and future growth.

Mayor Helen Blackburn said the works were an investment in safety and future growth.

“This roundabout is not just about easing traffic flow, it’s about preparing for the future,” she said.
“We know this area is expanding rapidly and this upgrade ensures our infrastructure is keeping pace with that growth.

“We’re incredibly grateful to the local businesses and community for their co-operation and understanding throughout the works.”

Council Roads and Infrastructure portfolio spokeswoman Larine Statham-Blair said the project would deliver long-term benefits.

“The Hughes Road roundabout will not only improve safety but also make it easier for people to walk, cycle and drive in the area,” Ms Statham-Blair said.
“It will also significantly improve traffic flow and better connect the growing residential precincts with key services and businesses.”

Council also took advantage of the closure period to upgrade the sewerage network in preparation for future demand.

The Hughes Road roundabout is complete.

Local business Bargara Berries, which operates along Hughes Road, felt the impact of the prolonged works but praised the council’s communication throughout.

Owner Debbie Meiers said clear and early engagement helped minimise disruptions to trade.

“The communication started this time last year, so we knew that there would be interruptions,” she said.
“The ability to allow us to put signs on the road informing traffic we were open was invaluable.”

Ms Meiers said she believed the completed roundabout would bring lasting benefits.

“We know that this roundabout will increase safety and improve the flow of traffic.”
“Hughes Road is very busy and the new estates will bring new and welcome visitors to our shop,” she said.

“We want to thank every customer who has called in and supported us since opening for our season on 22 April.”

Originally published as Major upgrade revealed for Bargara’s Hughes Road intersection