M4-M8 WestConnex: New videos take a journey inside unopened Haberfield, St Peters tunnels

Newly released interactive videos give Sydneysiders the chance to take a journey through the unopened WestConnex tunnels linking the M4 and M8. See it first.

Sydneysiders can now take an interactive journey through the soon-to-be-opened WestConnex tunnels beneath their feet, giving a sneak peek into the new route.

The 7.5km tunnels, which will open to drivers early next year, will link the M4 and M8, at St Peters and Haberfield, creating a 33km traffic-light-free orbital designed to slash travel times by taking drivers underground and off clogged thoroughfares.

Transurban, the company managing the infrastructure, has released a series of videos, from either side of the unopened link, to give drivers a taste of what is to come by replicating the tunnel fit-out and signage.

“This world class infrastructure will transform the way people move around Sydney, including a direct, traffic-light free trip between Parramatta and Mascot for the first time,” Transurban WestConnex group executive Andrew Head said.

Mr Head said the videos were a tool to help prepare and accustom drivers, putting safety at the forefront.

“These tools are an opportunity to work out how the new tunnel connections could benefit you,” he said.

“We know from the opening of other major infrastructure, like the M8 and NorthConnex, that drivers can take time to adjust to changes on the road network.

An exclusive peer inside the M4-M8 tunnels of WestConnex, set to open in early 2023. Picture: Darren Daly

“We recommend drivers use the tools, like the website and driver animations, but also be aware of the alternate routes and changes in traffic conditions. Make a decision early, move into the correct lane, read the signs and drive safely.”

Transurban is inviting residents below the surface on December 18, to get an exclusive glimpse of the engineering, as well as hosting community pop-up stalls to allow residents to pick the brains of WestConnex experts.

“Local communities along the WestConnex corridor should be the first to know about what this new motorway will mean for them,” Mr Head said.

With up to four lanes in each direction, the link will be future-proofed with world class traffic management systems, designed to talk to the next phase of electric, connected and automated vehicles, as well as slashing peak drive times from Parramatta to the airport by up to 40 minutes.

The new tunnel link will open in early 2023.

The plan your journey tool, alongside the route animations, can be found here.