A Roads and Maritime Services spokesperson said the Australian and state governments were jointly funding the project, which is the first of three major upgrades as part of the $391.6-million M1 Productivity Package.

“Work is being carried out to widen the motorway to provide three lanes in each direction between Wyong Road at Tuggerah, and the Doyalson Link Road,” the spokesperson said.

“Work also includes rebuilding a nine-kilometre section of the motorway between Wyong River and the Doyalson interchange to improve the road surface, improving road drainage, as well as providing safety and capacity improvements to key motorway interchanges at Warnervale and Doyalson.”

The spokesperson said the improvements would benefit motorists by increasing traffic capacity along the motorway which would mean less congestion and better travel times for motorists, improved road safety, and a smoother road surface.

“This stage of work will see more than 4100 concrete and steel barriers installed along the 12 kilometre section of the motorway which will define the work zones and help keep motorists and workers safe during this important upgrade.

“The barriers are being moved from two separate sites and being placed on the motorway at night progressively during the next two months, weather permitting.

To ensure the safety of workers and motorists, a reduced 80 km/h speed limit has been put in place across the project and is being enforced.

For the latest traffic information, visit www.livetraffic.com, download the Live Traffic App or call the Transport Management Centre on 132 701.