UPDATE: A statewide police blitz begins tomorrow, December 24, 2023, with double demerit points in effect until January 4, 2024. Authorities are urging motorists to prepare for heavy traffic and possible delays as holiday travel surges.
Motorists heading from the South Coast face significant congestion at notorious pinch points. Expect delays of up to 30 minutes on the Princes Highway south of Bomaderry, particularly around Nowra, Jervis Bay Road, Tomerong, Milton, Ulladulla, and Moruya.
For those traveling north, the M1 Pacific Motorway anticipates 45-minute delays from Wahroonga to Gosford on the busiest day, Friday, December 26. Further north, pinch points along the Pacific Highway at Hexham could lead to 30-minute delays on December 27 and 28. Drivers through Coffs Harbour should also brace for delays of 20 to 30 minutes on December 22, 23, and again December 27 and 28.
Westbound travelers on the Great Western Highway should expect delays towards Lithgow from December 27 to 30, with potential delays of up to 20 minutes.
As NSW school holidays commenced on December 22 and run through January 26, 2024, heavy traffic is anticipated. Transport for NSW executive director Rob Austin stressed the importance of patience during this busy period.
“We want everyone to arrive safely wherever they are going over the summer holidays. Please prepare before you go, slow down, and take extra care on the roads,”
Austin stated.
Authorities are advising motorists to utilize the NSW Holiday and Journey Planning website for real-time updates on traffic conditions. The NSW Pinch Point Journey Planner and the Live Traffic NSW app are essential tools for avoiding the busiest travel times.
With multiple pinch points and the influx of holiday travelers, the urgency for safer roads cannot be overstated. Stay informed, plan ahead, and drive safely this holiday season.
