Travelling on the M1 on the northern Gold Coast has just become a little easier, with a new multi-million dollar off-ramp now open.
Increased capacity and new signals have been completed on Ormeau’s exit 45 southbound off-ramp, making it safer and easier to navigate.
This upgrade is the first of three northern Gold Coast M1 interchanges to be completed, with work ongoing on Exit 41 (Yatala South) and Exit 49 (Pimpama).
The $20 million Ormeau safety upgrade was jointly funded 50/50 between the Australian and State governments.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Catherine King says upgrades were desperately needed.
“We’ve seen rapid industrial and residential growth in Ormeau, so this southbound off-ramp upgrade was vital,” Minister King says.
“Heading southbound off the motorway at Exit 45 will now be safer and more reliable. It will also benefit through traffic,
“This is a win for local motorists, and improves freight access to the industrial areas.”
WATCH:
State Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey says it’ll ensure local residents get home sooner, and will also keep cars flowing on the M1.
“We’ve realigned the southbound off-ramp to a new signalised intersection on Lahrs Road, with extra lanes and a new left-turn slip to make travel times more reliable,” Minister Bailey says.
“This is a growing region of the Gold Coast, particularly in the industrial sector, so I’m pleased this congestion-busting project is now complete,
“As the busiest highway in the state, it’s important we continue this high level of investment.”
What’s changed:
- Lanes have been added to the Ormeau Interchange off-ramp to increase capacity, with a new left-turn slip lane making it easier for drivers to turn onto northbound Lahrs Road.
- Motorists heading to the eastern end of Eggersdorf Road and beyond no longer need to travel through the eastern interchange roundabout when exiting the motorway.
- Traffic signals have also been installed at the off-ramp intersection with Lahrs Road and Zupp Drive, and extra roundabout metering signals added on the eastern roundabout.
The increased capacity and new signals are intended to significantly reduce southbound off-ramp queueing during peak periods, and improve access and reliability for freight heading into Ormeau.
