Construction on the M1 Pacific Motorway extension between Black Hill and Raymond Terrace has reached a major milestone, with project teams completing foundation works for 11 new bridges along the 15‑kilometre corridor.

Since February 2024, crews have installed 278 bridge piles, including 173 piles for the 2.6‑kilometre viaduct that will span the Hunter River and surrounding floodplain. Sixteen piles were driven into the riverbed using heavy‑lift barges, requiring detailed planning and complex marine construction methods.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the completion marked a significant step forward.

“This is one of the busiest sections of the Pacific Highway, and I’m pleased the Albanese and Minns governments are working together to deliver this major improvement,” said King.

Motorists experienced reduced congestion over the recent summer period following the opening of new bridges at Black Hill, Tomago and Raymond Terrace, along with the Masonite Road bridge at Heatherbrae in late 2025.

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon said the extension is essential to supporting regional movement.

“Anyone who’s spent time sitting in traffic at Hexham over these summer holidays, or any other day, knows just how frustrating this bottleneck is for families and commuters,” she said.

Seven bridges are still under construction, including the Hunter River viaduct. These structures will open in stages as work progresses across the corridor.

The $2.24‑billion project is jointly funded by the Federal and NSW Governments, with $1.792 billion provided by the Commonwealth and $448 million from NSW.

The extension also includes the Hexham Straight widening, targeting improved safety, reduced congestion and more efficient freight movements across the region.

Source: Inside Construction

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