A familiar section of the New England Highway near Singleton is set for a new identity as part of major changes in the region. With the Singleton Bypass expected to open in late 2026, the stretch between the Hunter River crossing and about 570 metres north of Magpie Street at McDougalls Hill will soon become an unnamed road.
Singleton Council is proposing the name Hilltop Road and is inviting community feedback until Thursday, January 29. The name was selected after a public call for suggestions, which attracted 20 eligible options under NSW Addressing Policy and Geographical Names Board guidelines. Councillors voted in a ballot, with Hilltop Road emerging as the preferred choice.
Transport for NSW and the Geographical Names Board have endorsed the name, which reflects decades of local history. The route was once a popular drive for locals heading to the service station at the top of McDougalls Hill and a well-known gathering spot for young people enjoying views of the valley.
If you’d like to make a submission, or to learn more, head here.
