WestConnex News: The Sydney Metro project continues to move forward and new details of the WestConnex M4-M5 Link project have been released.
An updated design for the M4-M5 Link twin tunnels will see the number of lanes increasing from three to four in each direction, and there will no longer be on and off ramps at Camperdown.
The M4-M5 Link project recently called for expressions of interest from industry to construct the twin tunnels for this key part of WestConnex.
“The M4-M5 Link is arguably the most important stage of WestConnex.”
Industry invited to submit ideas and designs
SMC Chief Executive Officer Dennis Cliche said the tunnels will be some of the longest in Australia and require world-class expertise throughout the design and build stages.
“In calling for expressions of interest, we are asking industry to put their most innovative ideas and designs forward to ensure we build the best possible infrastructure for Sydney,” he explained.
“The M4-M5 Link is arguably the most important stage of WestConnex as it forms the vital connection between the upgraded M4 and New M5 to create a western bypass of Sydney’s CBD.”
Project Director Peter Jones said the M4-M5 Link will be built in two stages with the twin tunnels from Haberfield to St Peters being a separate project from the Iron Cove and Rozelle Interchange link.
“The main tunnel works package is expected to include up to nine kilometres of twin tunnels, associated ramps and supporting operational facilities with construction targeted to commence in 2018 and potentially opening to traffic in 2022,” he said.
Minister for Roads Duncan Gay said this stage of WestConnex is the most important because it’s the missing link which finally joins the M4 and M5 motorways together.
“This Government is building infrastructure Sydney desperately needs and we’re working with the community to make improvements to achieve the best outcomes,” he stated.
Future-proofing Sydney’s road network
Putting more lanes in the M4-M5 Link tunnels is seen as a forward-looking measure that will enable it to link up with major road projects planned for the future – such as the proposed F6 and Western Harbour Tunnel.
Sydney’s M4-M5 twin tunnels will ease traffic from Camperdown to the CBD.According to WestConnex, the link’s new design will ease traffic significantly along Parramatta Road, from Haberfield to the CBD.
With the tunnel now moved to the west, the development will no longer impact Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and the University of Sydney. Furthermore, the route between the Rozelle and St Peters Interchanges becomes more direct. In Camperdown, a small number of commercial properties near the tunnelling site on Paramatta Road will need to be acquired.
“There is no project more important for the millions of people in western and south-western Sydney. “
Those in the western suburbs will really benefit
Federal Minister for Urban Infrastructure Paul Fletcher said the Government was investing $1.5 billion in grant funding towards WestConnex, in addition to a $2 billion concessional loan towards the development.
“There is no project more important for the millions of people in western and southwestern Sydney than WestConnex, which is why we’re getting on with building it,” Mr Fletcher said.
Civil Construction Solutions – the Bluey way
As with many civil engineering projects across Australia and New Zealand, Bluey Technologies is playing an active role in getting the Sydney Metro project finished. Across both waterproofing and ground support application, our products and services are making a real difference.
If you would like to know more about what we can offer in this area, feel free to get in touch with our expert team today. We can provide case studies and examples of where our products could add value to your efforts. We look forward to speaking to you!