Preferred option report released for Dapto ramps

Fowlers Road has been confirmed as the preferred option for new south-facing entry and exit ramps to the M1 Princes Motorway at Dapto, marking a major step forward in improving connectivity for the growing Illawarra region.

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

The preferred option would provide direct access to and from the motorway for motorists travelling south, helping to ease pressure on the local road network and improve overall journey reliability for the community.

Following detailed investigations, Fowlers Road was identified as the best-performing location against key criteria including safety, traffic and transport outcomes, property and environmental considerations, cost and long-term benefits.

Transport for NSW Executive Director Brendon James, said the preferred option strikes the right balance between improving connectivity and delivering strong outcomes for the community.

“We know how important reliable access to the motorway is for people living and working in Dapto and surrounding areas,” Mr 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 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.

“We’ve taken a detailed approach to identifying the preferred option, looking at how each option performs now and into the future,” Mr James said.

“Fowlers Road consistently delivered the strongest overall outcomes across the project objectives.”

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 community is invited to attend drop-in sessions to learn more about the project and speak with the project team. Registrations to attend sessions can be made online at nswroads.work/dapto-ramps or by calling the project information line 1800 312 766.

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.

More information about the project, a preferred option report and community information sessions is available at nswroads.work/dapto-ramps.