M1 Pacific Motorway northbound capacity (Wahroonga to Mount Colah)
The M1 Pacific Motorway caters for more than 90,000 light and heavy vehicles movements between the Hunter, Central Coast and Sydney each day.
The convergence of high traffic volumes from the Pacific Highway and NorthConnex onto the M1 Pacific Motorway northbound, combined with steep grades, is resulting in traffic flow breakdown and extreme congestion during periods of high demand. This is resulting in:
- Increased frequency and severity of queuing on the M1 Pacific Motorway
- Flow-on congestion on surrounding roads including the Pacific Highway and Pennant Hills Road
- Partial closures of the NorthConnex tunnel and on-ramps to avoid compromising tunnel safety.
As the primary road corridor from Sydney to the Central Coast and Newcastle, traffic flow breakdown is being observed on Friday evenings and weekends. Notably, holiday peaks periods can have 170% to 220% higher traffic volumes relative to weekday peak periods.
Strategic Fit
Efficient movement for freight and passenger travel north from Greater Sydney is an identified priority on the National Land Transport Network.
Societal Impact
The proposal would contribute to improving liveability on the Central Coast and Newcastle, promote greater visitation and potentially improving road safety.
Deliverability
The M1 Pacific Motorway has been the subject of previous road widening proposal. Transport for NSW is responsible for the planning and delivery of any proposal to ease road congestion on the M1.
Proponent to identify and analyse potential investment options (Stage 2 of Infrastructure Australia’s Assessment Framework).
Refer to Infrastructure Glossary for terms and definitions.