Final stage for WestConnex unveiled
12 May 2017
Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for WestConnex Stuart Ayres today released the concept design for M4-M5 Link that will provide the vital connection between two of Sydney's busiest motorways. “Like the Harbour Bridge did for the North Shore, the M4-M5 Link will bridge a major gap in the road network, creating a non-stop underground western bypass of Sydney's CBD with links to the port and airport precincts,” Ms Berejiklian said. “This is the most critical section of WestConnex and the most beneficial in that it will slash travel times, as well as significantly constrain traffic growth on Parramatta Road.” Drivers can expect travel savings, including; The average peak journey between Parramatta and Sydney Airport being cut by up to 40 minutes Around 20 minutes cut from a peak hour trip between Burwood and Sydney Airport Around half an hour cut from the morning peak hour trip from Port Botany to Silverwater Up to 10,000 fewer trucks on Parramatta Road east of Concord. Mr Ayres said, “We've listened to the community, and we are now seeking further feedback and ideas to refine the project's design ahead of the Environmental Impact Statement which will be released mid-year. “The M4-M5 link will form a key part of Sydney's road network by connecting to projects like the future Western Harbour Tunnel and F6 extension while also improving the liveability of local communities.” Mr Ayres also confirmed the Government would proceed with the sale of at least a 51 per cent stake in the Sydney Motorway Corporation, the company delivering WestConnex, to help fund the final stage. “The Government will call for expressions of interest for the WestConnex sale later this year, and is targeting a transaction closing date of mid-2018. “Our capital recycling strategy for funding WestConnex ensures the Government has the funding available to finish the job and will deliver the M4-M5 Link as promised.” The Government has also confirmed tolling will be implemented on the New M4 after a one month toll free period. A distance-based toll of between $1.77 and $4.56 ($2017) will be implemented on the new section of the M4 between Parramatta and Homebush. “The opening of this first section of WestConnex is a great achievement but there is more to do with 21 road headers currently working 24/7 to extend the M4 underground from Homebush to Haberfield,” Ms Berejiklian said. Building work for the underground M4-M5 Link between Haberfield and St Peters is expected to start in 2018 and finish in 2023.
