New South Wales (NSW) Government has commenced work on the $55m Erskine Park Link Road in western Sydney.

The project includes the construction of a 80m dual bridge across Ropes Creek, as well as the construction of three intersections, earthwork, drainage and road surfacing work.

Upon completion, the road will provide a vital link to western Sydney and reduce traffic on local roads by redirecting trucks from residential streets to the M7 and M4.

The 3.1km divided four-lane road between Lenore Lane at Penrith and Old Wallgrove road at Blacktown will also provide a new shared cycle / pedestrian path.

The project is expected to be completed in 2013.