NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the new name would make it easier for visitors and emergency services to move around the region.

“The upgraded highway route will bypass South Grafton and Ulmarra and bring about a significant reduction in the volume of traffic travelling on the existing Pacific Highway.”

Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Roads and Infrastructure and Member for Clarence Chris Gulaptis said the community provided suggestions for a new name in 2019.

“The local community who live and work along the section of the highway were consulted and included landholders, businesses, community groups and emergency services,” Mr Gulaptis.

“More than 290 local submissions were received which included 166 unique names being submitted.”

Clarence Valley Council Mayor Jim Simmons said the name chosen reflects the fact the majority of the road runs close by the Clarence River.

“Council also recommended the section of road from Tyndale to Cameron Street in Maclean be given the same road name to ensure continuity, simplified signage and ease of way-finding for all road users.”