The $2.1 billion M1 extension, which includes upgrades to the surrounding network, such as the Hexham Straight widening, is funded by both levels of government, with the Australian Government committing $1.68 billion and the NSW Government committing $420 million.

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“It’s so exciting to stand alongside the NSW Government and see shovels in the ground for a project which will be a huge benefit to travellers and truck drivers, but also to Hunter Valley families,” said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

“All over Australia, my Government is building stronger foundations for a better future.

“This upgrade will mean quicker travel times between Sydney and Brisbane, but most importantly – safer travel for families and workers who use this route going up and down the east coast.”

The M1 extension will feature a fifteen-kilometre extension of the motorway, removing five sets of traffic lights and cutting nine minutes from travel times during peak periods.

It will also deliver a 2.6-kilometre viaduct over the Hunter River and floodplain, the Main North Rail Line, and the New England Highway.

There will also be new bridge crossings over local waterways at Tarro and Raymond Terrace, and an overpass for Masonite Road at Heatherbrae.

This is one of two remaining locations on the east coast corridor where the route is an urban road with traffic lights – the other being at Coffs Harbour, where work is also well underway on a new bypass which is due to be completed in late 2027.

Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said, “This project, together with the Coffs Harbour bypass, will provide the remaining major upgrades to complete a free-flowing dual carriageway route between Sydney and Brisbane.

“The M1 extension will create more efficient and reliable journeys by bypassing five sets of traffic lights, saving nine minutes in travel time and removing about 25,000 vehicles a day from key congestion and merge points between Newcastle and Maitland.”

NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said the project would provide a welcome boost to the economy by supporting up to 2,700 direct and indirect jobs during construction.

“More than $3 billion of road projects are being funded by the Australian and NSW governments across the Hunter at the moment.

“This not only boosts the regional, State and Federal economy but will improve safety and efficiency for our local and regional communities and all motorists.”

The M1 extension at Raymond Terrace is expected to be open to traffic in 2028.

For further information visit https://caportal.com.au/tfnsw/m1rt.

By Doug CONNOR