One of the Hunter's biggest ever infrastructure projects is taking another step forward with registrations of interest being called from prequalified contractors to deliver the M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace project.
The Australian Government has committed $1.6 billion and the New South Wales Government $400 million to deliver both the M1 to Raymond Terrace and Hexham Straight projects, continuing the transformation of journeys between Sydney and the Queensland border.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the project would deliver improved highway connections and more reliable travel times, as well as support 2,700 jobs over its life cycle.
"This game-changing project will help ease congestion for the 25,000 vehicles that use this stretch between Newcastle and Maitland every day, helping to keep freight, commuters and tourists moving," the Deputy Prime Minister said.
"The extension is a huge investment for the region and shows how we're planning for the future of our national transport network and the significant growth we're seeing between Sydney, Newcastle, the North Coast and Brisbane."
New South Wales Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said moving a step closer to delivering the M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace project was the final 'missing link' in the chain between delivering smoother journeys between the Victorian and Queensland borders.
"We have already crossed the finish line on the $15 billion Pacific Highway upgrade, duplicating the
657‑kilometre stretch between Hexham and the Queensland border, and are powering ahead with the 14-
kilometre Coffs Harbour bypass," Mr Toole said.
"Our focus is now turning to this final section - with demand on the road network in the Hunter only anticipated to increase as populations grow, the M1 extension to Raymond Terrace will provide improved traffic flow and increased connectivity, while ensuring better access to the road network for local traffic."
Liberal Patron Senator for the Hunter Region Hollie Hughes said after early consultation with industry, the project will be delivered using two collaborative design and construct contracts.
"The project includes 15 kilometres of motorway with two lanes in each direction, and provides motorway access from the existing road network from four new interchanges at Black Hill, Tarro, Tomago and Raymond Terrace," Senator Hughes said.
"This will provide improved access for these key employment areas with the Port of Newcastle and Greater Newcastle, delivering substantial economic benefits for the region."
New South Wales Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin said the project will be a game-changer for local communities, for freight, and for tourists.
"Discussions with the construction industry were held as part of the Market Interaction Process, which provided valuable insights into the views of the industry and helped to determine the best delivery approach for the project," Mr Martin said.
"Transport for NSW will work with short-listed tenderers, and then the successful contractors, to consider and incorporate innovations proposed by industry, ensuring value for money delivery of the project benefits."
