Work begins on M1 upgrade
WORK to upgrade the M1 between Mudgeeraba and Varsity Lakes has begun after years of fighting between the state and federal governments.
But upgrades to exits in the northern Gold Coast are still some way off.
“We continue to review entries and exits for safety and we will invest there as funds become available,” Acting Main Roads Minister Steven Miles said.
He said the LNP, who had repeatedly called for upgrades to exits in Helensvale, Ormeau and Coomera, were a “bit rich” to lecture the state government about the M1.
Mr Miles yesterday announced early works on the upgrades to the southern section had started.
The works include the installation of CCTV cameras at Mudgeeraba, Robina and Varsity Lakes interchanges, relocation of underground utilities between exits 79 and 82 and installing an overhead electronic sign at Reedy Creek.
“The preliminary works will progress between now and the Commonwealth Games,” Mr Miles said. “That means after the Commonwealth Games they can immediately start the heavier road works which could impact on congestion.” SCUTTLING the ASF and Sunland development to create an “iconic destination” at The Spit means the full cost of fixing traffic congestion in the area will likely be paid by ratepayers.
Both private developments proposed extensive access solutions including bridges and had offered to foot a significant part of the bill for building them.
A report by PricewaterhouseCoopers into the Gold Coast City Council’s proposed cruise ship terminal found key intersections feeding The Spit were already at capacity during peak hours.
“PwC understands that key intersections in the area around The Spit including the Gold Coast Highway and Waterways Drive, Waterways Drive and MacArthur Parade, and the Sea World roundabout all operate at over capacity during peak times,” it said.
The report found a further 491 vehicle trips through the area would be generated for every ship that arrived and departed the terminal if it was to proceed.
Deputy Premier Jackie Trad this week said her Spit master plan would allow the area to become an “iconic destination” for locals and tourists.
But she had no answer to how growing congestion in the area could be eased or who