The bridge and Nelson Bay Road serve as the main transport route between Newcastle and the Tilligerry and Tomaree peninsulas in Port Stephens.

The bridge carries motor vehicles and a central grade-separated shared cycleway and footpath.

Options investigated included bridges from Hunter Street and Nobbys Head to Stockton and an underwater tunnel.

An initial plan to build a bridge from North Carrington to Stockton was rejected as it would interfere with shipping.

[1][3] The Stockton Bridge was officially opened by Premier Robert Askin on 1 November 1971.