Work on the southern side of the road will commence in mid-July.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council said water, sewer, stormwater drainage, electrical and communication service relocations are finished. 

Pavement and footpath works are almost complete, which will allow traffic to switch sides so work can continue on the southern half of the roundabout.

Construction commenced in February with an end goal of improved safety and traffic flow at the notoriously busy intersection. 

The upgrade includes a concrete roundabout for improved traffic flow, providing a safer passage for vehicles exiting and entering Newport Island Road at Hastings River Drive. 

Pedestrian and cycling links will also be improved. 

The $2.07 million contract to construct the new roundabout was awarded to Ditchfield Contracting Pty Ltd. The original completion target of September 2018 is still expected.

Many businesses on the busy stretch of road have been impacted by the works, with some owners sympathetic to the cause while expressing concerns.

Jax Tyres manager Shaun Gibney and Ryan's Bakery owner Bryan Hancock both reported a decrease in customers.

"We've noticed this month has been a bit quiet (but) it's hard to say why that is," Mr Gibney saud. 

"It's a bad corner. I've seen a few accidents there (so) hopefully a roundabout will slow people up and make it a safer intersection."

Mr Hancock said he understands the need for the works but would have liked to see a faster process.

"I wish it wouldn't take nine months to do. It seems to be taking a hell of a long time. That's my biggest complaint,” he said.

“You think they would be able to get it all done in three or four months, not nine months of disruptions."

He estimates a loss of $500-a-day in sales, saying it is sending the business backwards.

“It's crippling us at the moment (but) there's nothing you can really do. It's a necessary evil," he said.

"Council and all of the workers have been very good. The workers spend their money here and we appreciate that.

"But council are charging us rates at the back door but ripping up the front door. I would have liked to see them come forward and say they won't charge us rates for six months as a bit of good will.”

Mr Hancock said he is looking forward to the light at the end of the tunnel.

"Hopefully that comes fast," he said. "That intersection was always busy and dangerous and I hope the roundabout will lower that danger for everyone."