The new Paynes Crossing Bridge has been officially opened, signalling fuss-free travel between the Cessnock and Singleton local government areas.

The $2.44 million project on Paynes Crossing Road, north of Wollombi, has created a two-lane bridge that is three metres higher than the original structure and much stronger.

The alignment of the bridge has also changed to make the approach a lot safer.

The bridge can easily hold NSW Rural Fire Service tankers so crews can now take a direct route when responding to bushfires.

It is also unlikely to be engulfed by flood water from the Wollombi Brook, which is a huge bonus for locals.

The joint Cessnock City Council and Singleton Council project entered the construction phase in June last year.

It was possible thanks to $667,700 from the Federal Government's Bridges Renewal Program and $668,300 from the NSW Government's Fixing Country Roads Fund.

Read more: Bridge on vital rural link to be replaced

Cessnock and Singleton councils put in just over $1.1 million.

"As a result of us working together with our neighbours we've provided the community with vital new infrastructure that better serves their needs. The new bridge is three metres higher than the old structure, has two lanes, a longer life span, and the improved alignment makes it safer for drivers. It will benefit locals and visitors who frequent the area," Cessnock Mayor Bob Pynsent said.

"Flooding of the old structure was a genuine concern for residents making it impassable during heavy rain events. The new structure is three metres higher offering more resilience during weather events," he added."

The old single-lane bridge was 72-years-old and had deteriorated due to an increase in traffic and storm damage over the years.

It had a six-tonne limit so RFS tankers filled with water couldn't use it.

"The new dual-lane bridge will not only provide a safer crossing for transporters of livestock and other agricultural products, but will also reduce councils' maintenance costs as it won't require the same level of upkeep as the 72-year old bridge," Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said.

"On top of delivering a more reliable crossing for freight operators in times of heavy rain, the project has also supported 20 jobs in the local community through the construction phase," Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole added.

Vaccine timeline thrown out the window

New flavours for TASTE

How the river banks have changed

Teenage Newcastle Knights player killed in crash