Major Upgrades Planned for John Renshaw Drive to Ease Hunter Traffic Bottleneck

newy.com.au – The Australian and New South Wales governments have committed $15 million to progress planning for critical upgrades at a major traffic congestion point in the Hunter region. The improvements aim to cut travel times, reduce congestion, and enhance road safety at the busy junction of the M1 Pacific Motorway, John Renshaw Drive, Weakleys Drive, and the New England Highway at Beresfield.

Currently, motorists experience significant delays due to high traffic volumes, multiple sets of traffic signals, and inadequate road capacity. The project is jointly funded, with the Australian Government contributing $12 million and the NSW Government providing $3 million.

Planned improvements under consideration include upgrades at the M1 Motorway and Weakleys Drive intersection, lane duplication along Weakleys Drive between Enterprise Drive and Canavan Drive, and better access between Weakleys Drive and the New England Highway. Once completed, these enhancements will improve freight efficiency, particularly for connections to the Port of Newcastle and Newcastle Airport.

Traffic and economic modelling is ongoing to determine the final scope of the upgrades, with construction timelines dependent on further funding and planning approvals.

Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King emphasised the importance of the project, stating, “These upgrades to John Renshaw Drive will improve safety and traffic flow, leading to better travel times and more reliable trips, particularly during peak periods. This work will ensure the road meets current and future traffic demands, supporting the development of industrial areas and the broader regional economy.”

NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison highlighted the strategic significance of John Renshaw Drive, noting that the upgrades would improve access between key employment and freight hubs such as the Port of Newcastle and Newcastle Airport. “This planning is part of a broader strategy, which includes the M1 to Raymond Terrace and Hexham Straight Widening projects, aimed at addressing current and projected traffic growth at this critical transport junction,” she said.

Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson welcomed the investment, stressing the need for better infrastructure in the fast-growing region. “This planning work is a vital step towards a more reliable, less congested road network for residents in Maitland, Thornton, and Beresfield,” she said.

State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery echoed the sentiment, recognising the importance of ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with the region’s rapid growth. “I look forward to seeing solutions that will deliver the best possible road network for regional travellers while minimising delays for local commuters,” she said.

For more details on the project, visit Transport for NSW.