This report is a conservation plan (stage 1) for the entire length of the Great North Road, originally constructed from 1826 to 1836 (convict trail) to link Sydney with the Hunter Valley, a distance of some 240 kilometres. Of this distance approximately 200 kilometres remains in use as gazetted road in both urban and rural areas and about 40 kilometres exists as fire management trails or walking tracks in or adjacent to national park areas. This plan deals with the historic background and significance of the Great North Road, provides an overview description of its physical condition, considers management issues and provides policy and recommendations to assist with the future management of this highly significant heritage item.