Last month, the Mercury broke the news that the Yallah interchange at the northern end of the bypass may not be constructed.

If it was not built, then southbound motorists from Dapto would have to use the Princes Highway rather than the bypass.

Roads and Maritime Services has said the construction of the interchange was partially dependent on cost.

The body had also said that traffic modelling questioned whether it was required to be built at the same time as the bypass.

“Traffic modelling indicates the Yallah interchange is not required until there is a substantial increase in traffic,” a Roads and Maritime Services spokeman said.

“Future traffic is expected from large scale residential developments at Yallah and West Dapto.

“Timing for these developments requires confirmation from Wollongong City Council and developers.”

However, there is no clear date for when Dapto residents will know if the government can afford to build the interchange.

“A cost estimate is expected when tenders to design and build the Albion Park Rail Bypass have been received in coming months,” the spokesman said.

Three companies had made the shortlist to build the bypass and will be assessed by the government before awarding the tender.

The spokesman said the interchange will remain as part of the bypass for the planning stages.

“The Yallah interchange is still being assessed and included as part of the current planning approvals so when timing is confirmed and funding becomes available work can start,” he said.