52km traffic jam in NSW as long weekend comes to a close

NSW motorists heading back from their long weekend last night were warned to expect major delays, with traffic stretching more than 50km.

It was slow going on many of NSW’s major roads late on Monday night as thousands of people made their way home after spending the long weekend away.

People heading towards Sydney were told to expect major delays, with 7News reporting traffic was stretching back more than 52km.

Images taken from the 7News helicopter showed a long line of headlights creeping along the M1 towards Sydney.

Traffic finally began to ease along the M1 after motorists were earlier warned to allow at least an extra 45 minutes, particularly those travelling from the Central Coast.

Images taken from a helicopter shows the traffic stretching back for kilometres. Picture: 7News

Traffic on Bells Line of Rd had also eased, after motorists were earlier warned to allow at least 40 minutes extra travel time for motorists approaching Bilpin and Kurrajong Heights.

Motorists were also experiencing delays northbound on the Hume Highway between Welby and Wilton, with drivers told to expect at least a 45 minute delay.

It came after NSW Police urged motorists to be patient on the roads for the long weekend.

The double demerit period for the state begun at 12am on Friday, June 11 and ran until midnight on Monday, June 14.

Double demerits applied to speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt and motorcycle/helmet offences, with police also targeting the “Four Ds” – Drink, Drug, Dangerous and Distracted driving.

Operation Commander Superintendent Stephen Hegarty said police expected roads to be busy with people travelling across NSW for the long weekend.

NSW Police were out in force on the roads this long weekend. Picture: NSW Highway Patrol

“Our message is to be patient and obey the road rules in all conditions,” said Superintendent Hegarty.

“There will be a number of cars on the road as people travel up and down the coast and inland, so we’re asking everyone to be extra careful. Slow down and drive to the conditions.”

“We want everyone to reach their destinations safely and to enjoy the long weekend without tragedy.”

Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott MP, said there is no excuse for any behaviour which endangers the lives of others.

“We want everyone to enjoy the Queen’s Birthday long weekend, but I urge you to do so safely. We do not want any fatalities on our roads,” Mr Elliott said.

“There is no excuse, when you flout the law you put the lives of others at risk. Celebrate safely, abide by the road rules and do not drink and drive.”