WestConnex M4 East tunnels may open by June

Motorists could see the M4 East tunnels of WestConnex open as early as June, which should provide welcome relief to commuters struggling along Parramatta Rd.

A worker in one of the M4 East tunnels. Picture: Dylan Coker

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Motorists could see the M4 East tunnels of WestConnex open as early as June, which should provide welcome relief to commuters struggling along Parramatta Rd.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian, Transport Minister Andrew Constance and the media toured the 5.5km underground toll road between Homebush and Haberfield this morning.

The two tunnels, which each have three lanes, require only some wall panelling, electrical work and testing before opening to traffic.

Workers in one of the M4 East tunnels. Picture: Dylan Coker

While the government said the tunnels were set to open in about four months, the M4 project director Terry Chapman gave an earlier time frame.

“The current plan is to open the tunnel before the end of June but clearly we have testing and things to complete,” he said.

Lanes were still to be marked at the eastern end of the eastbound tunnel, and workers in dust masks were carrying out final touches.

Workers install panels in the wall. Picture: Dylan Coker

The final testing includes the ventilation of exhaust fumes from the tunnel, as well as emergency scenarios.

Cameras capable of detecting stationary vehicles, and public address and radio systems to talk to motorists will be among the technology used to ensure traffic flows.

“People should feel very safe driving through here,” Mr Chapman said.

A reduced speed limit is in place during construction. Picture: Dylan Coker

Ms Berejiklian defended criticism that the project had not been delivered to schedule.

In December 2017, Ms Berejiklian said the tunnels would be open to the public in March 2019.

She told media today that issues with third parties could slow major projects.

“This project was complex, there were a number of times when above ground we had to slow things down to deal with issues that arose which weren’t anticipated,” she said.

“That always happens with major projects,” she said.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Transport Minister Andrew Constance toured the site. Picture: Dylan Coker

Ms Berejiklian said people above ground would also benefit from better air quality and less congested roads once the tunnels opened.

“I know during the project the inner west residents in particular raised concerns along the way,” she said.

“But I think everybody will be pleasantly surprised once the tunnel is opened to see the positive impact that’s happening above ground as well as allowing commuters and motorists to have those reduced travel times.”

City-bound motorists will join the City West Link after leaving the Wattle St, Haberfield exit.

Eastbound motorists on the M4 East will eventually be able to join the M4-M5 Link of WestConnex when that part is completed by 2023.

The Concord Interchange, which includes a 200m Concord Rd bridge, will be another popular entry and exit point for the tunnels.