Works ramp up in Queensland on the M1 between Mudgeeraba and Varsity Lakes
Heavy construction on the congestion-busting M1 widening between Mudgeeraba and Varsity Lakes on the Australian Gold Coast is now a step closer with the Seymour Whyte Group being awarded the project contract.
Federal Minister for Urban Infrastructure and Cities Paul Fletcher said the widening of the M1 would substantially reduce congestion, improve freight efficiency and road safety, and provide better access to the Gold Coast CBD and surrounding areas. “This is an important traffic corridor and the upgrade will provide a vital injection of jobs, unlock economic capacity and better serve our communities now and for decades to come,” Mr Fletcher said.
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said the project would relieve traffic congestion on the southern Gold Coast and support on average over 300 jobs over the life of the project boosting the Gold Coast local economy. “The tender process ensured all three tenderers, Seymour Whyte, CPB Contractors and Lendlease had input into the design and were able to explore innovative construction methods,” Mr Bailey said.
Federal Member for McPherson Karen Andrews said reaching this milestone was welcome news for commuters through the southern Gold Coast. “Works will include the construction of a third lane in each direction, improved interchange ramps and a new bridge for Stapley Drive at Exit 84, which will help alleviate motorway congestion between Mudgeeraba and Varsity Lakes” Mrs Andrews said.
State Member for Gaven Meaghan Scanlon said the upgrades would help improve traffic flow on the coast. “Whether motorists are locals or visiting our beautiful region, this upgrade is going to make it a lot easier for them to get around on the Gold Coast,” she said.
There will be no speed or lane restrictions from 19 March to 29 April 2018 in the lead-up to, during and immediately after the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.
Road construction on this stage of the Pacific Motorway is expected to commence after the Commonwealth Games and is scheduled for completion in mid 2020, weather permitting.
This project, estimated to cost $180 million, is being jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments with the Australian government providing a capped contribution of $110 million and the Queensland government to pay the balance.
