Member for Hunter Joel Fitzgibbon made the statement when asked by The Singleton Argus if the project was on track for its 2013 completion date.

“The reality is that this is such a large project to be constructed in a short period of time that there will be work for everyone in the area who wants it,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.

Mr Fitzgibbon met with Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) representatives last week who absolutely confirmed the project was on target to meet its completion at the end of 2013.

“Construction will start early 2010 and most of the preliminary work has been done,” he said.

Relocation of utilities such as the power lines are well underway and is work that must be completed before earthworks can begin.

Mr Fitzgibbon said the western (closest to Singleton) and eastern ends of the project would be dealt with differently.

The western end will be done in partnership between two large firms yet to be selected while the eastern end will be coordinated between the RTA and one or a number of big companies.

“The tender process is well advanced and discussions have begun and are ongoing with all of the companies involved,” he said.

As for those looking for work, the best option is to keep an eye out in the jobs pages of The Singleton Argus and to check the RTA website.

Mr Fitzgibbon said the exciting aspect for Singleton was that those making the trip from Warringah in Sydney to Armidale or Brisbane would hit Singleton first after leaving the city.

“Singleton will be the first town they will hit after leaving Sydney,” he said.

•Singleton Shire Council held a workshop last week to ensure no local opportunity is lost during construction.

Council’s general manager Scott Greensill said the project had been so long in the planning that much of the preliminary work had already been done.

“There has been a significant amount of planning knowing that it has been on its way for sometime,” Mr Greensill said.