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Motorists traveling northbound on the M1 Pacific Motorway are being warned to expect significant delays following an incident that has prompted emergency road repair works on the Hawkesbury River Bridge at Mooney Mooney.
Traffic authorities have confirmed that two of the bridge’s three northbound lanes are currently closed, resulting in major congestion and extended travel times for drivers heading toward the Central Coast and northern regions of New South Wales. The reduced road capacity has created a significant bottleneck, with queues extending several kilometres south of the bridge.
Emergency Repairs Underway
Authorities have advised that emergency repair work became necessary following an incident on the bridge. While further details regarding the cause of the repairs have not been publicly released, crews have been deployed to assess the situation, complete the required works, and restore normal traffic conditions as quickly and safely as possible.
With only one northbound lane currently operating, a large volume of traffic is being forced through a restricted section of the motorway. The reduced capacity has contributed to heavy congestion, particularly during busy travel periods.
Road maintenance crews and emergency personnel remain at the scene managing traffic flow and carrying out the necessary repairs.
Significant Traffic Delays Reported
The Hawkesbury River Bridge is a key transport link connecting Sydney with the Central Coast, Newcastle, and surrounding areas. Disruptions at the crossing can quickly have widespread effects across the wider motorway network.
Traffic monitoring services have reported slow-moving conditions and lengthy queues approaching the bridge, with delays extending back toward Cowan. Many motorists have experienced stop-and-go traffic and significantly longer journey times than usual.
Drivers heading north through the area are being advised to allow extra time for their journeys and prepare for ongoing congestion while repair crews continue working.
Authorities Urge Motorists to Exercise Caution
Transport officials are reminding motorists to take care when approaching the affected area and to follow instructions from traffic controllers and emergency personnel.
Drivers are encouraged to:
- Reduce speed when approaching the repair zone.
- Follow temporary traffic management directions.
- Maintain safe distances between vehicles.
- Allow additional travel time.
- Remain alert to changing road conditions.
Authorities have emphasized that protecting motorists and road workers remains the highest priority while repair activities are underway.
Impact on Regional Travel
The M1 Pacific Motorway is one of New South Wales’ most important transport routes, carrying thousands of vehicles daily, including commuters, freight operators, commercial vehicles, and holiday travelers.
The current restrictions at the Hawkesbury River Bridge are affecting a wide range of road users traveling between Sydney and areas further north. Traffic management teams continue to monitor conditions and make adjustments where necessary to reduce the impact of the disruption.
Motorists planning to travel through the area are encouraged to check current traffic updates before departing and consider delaying their journey where possible to avoid the worst congestion periods.
Lane Reopening Timeline Unknown
At this stage, authorities have not provided a confirmed timeframe for when all northbound lanes will reopen.
Until repair works are completed and restrictions are removed, motorists should expect continued delays through the affected section of the motorway.
Traffic officials will continue monitoring the situation and provide updates as repair progress is made and additional lanes become available.
Advice for Drivers
Anyone traveling northbound on the M1 Pacific Motorway near the Hawkesbury River Bridge at Mooney Mooney should plan for longer travel times and possible delays.
Motorists are encouraged to remain patient, stay informed through official traffic channels, and cooperate with emergency crews working to safely restore normal traffic flow.
Authorities have thanked drivers for their understanding and cooperation while emergency repairs continue on this critical transport route.
