Learn about plans for south-facing ramps on M1 at Dapto

Last week Transport for NSW announced that Fowlers Road has been confirmed as the preferred option for new south-facing entry and exit ramps to the M1 Princes Motorway at Dapto.

Over the next two weeks, community members are invited to drop in, talk to the project team and give feedback at information sessions at Dapto Ribbonwood Centre.

The first session is on today, 12 May, from 2–4pm.

Four more sessions will be held on:

• Wednesday 13 May, 4:30–6:30pm
• Thursday 21 May, 3:30-5:30pm
• Friday 22 May, 11:30am- 1:30pm
• Saturday 23 May, 10am-12pm.

Update from TfNSW

The NSW and Australian governments have committed $30 million to progress planning for the project.

Transport for NSW's executive director, Brendon James, said: “The Fowlers Road option would make it easier to get on and off the M1 Princes Motorway, reducing pressure on local roads and helping support the continued growth of the region.”

The Illawarra-Shoalhaven region is expected to grow by about 100,000 people by 2041, increasing the total population to about 505,000 people. 

The preferred option includes a northbound exit ramp with left and right turn movements at a signalised intersection on Fowlers Road, and a southbound entry ramp connecting to the M1 Princes Motorway via an intersection with traffic lights at Fowlers Road.

The option also proposes upgrades to the Princes Highway and Fowlers Road intersection to improve turning movements and traffic flow.

Kanahooka Road was ruled out as it did not perform as strongly against the project objectives, with Fowlers Road offering better overall accessibility while avoiding impacts to mapped Coastal Wetlands.

A preferred option report outlining the assessment process and findings has been released to the community, outlining how the decision was made.

The project is still in the planning phase and further investigations at Fowlers Road are needed to inform the development of the design and environmental assessments, which will be placed on public display for feedback as the project progresses.

While confirmation of the preferred option provides more information about potential property impacts, any necessary property acquisition would only occur if construction funding is granted.  Staging options for delivery will also be considered as planning continues.

Registrations to attend the drop-in sessions can be made online at nswroads.work/dapto-ramps or by calling the project information line 1800 312 766.