M4-M5 Link Tunnels: The final breakthrough
M4-M5 Link Tunnels: The final breakthrough
11 Nov 2021
The final tunnelling breakthrough on the M4-M5 Link Tunnels project has been completed in a major construction milestone for Australia’s largest road infrastructure project.
The third stage of WestConnex is now another step closer to forming a western bypass of the Sydney CBD, and a critical part of the plan to keep Sydney moving.
This final breakthrough means both the north and southbound tunnels are connected for the first time, with roadheaders carving out the rock around 43 metres below ground at Leichhardt.
This is the last of six breakthroughs this year, and 13 in total, completing a ‘missing link’ between the New M4 Tunnels at Haberfield and the M8 at St Peters.
22 of the 33 kilometres of WestConnex will be underground, including the 7.5 kilometres that make up the M4-M5 Link Tunnels.
The milestone is an enormous credit to every one of the 9,000 workers and sub-contractors who’ve worked on the project, ensuring construction continues safely.
The M4-M5 Link Tunnels will remove tens of thousands of vehicles from surrounding streets, including Parramatta Road, and will help slash up to 40 minutes from an average peak journey between Parramatta and the Sydney Airport.
Tens of thousands of drivers are already enjoying the benefits of the first two stages of WestConnex, the New M4 Tunnels and M8, which have been game-changers for Sydney, easing traffic congestion and improving liveability for local communities.
When opened to traffic in 2023, both the M4-M5 Link Tunnels and associated Rozelle Interchange will complete the WestConnex project, transforming urban travel by providing enhanced connectivity between key employment hubs and local communities.
