Dapto commuters frustrated by the town’s limited motorway access are a step closer to relief, with a $10 million federal investment to plan long-awaited south-facing ramps.
The Australian Government’s commitment matches an equal $10 million investment from the Minns Government, bringing the total planning fund to $20 million. The funding will explore options for new south-facing ramps onto the M1 Princes Motorway from Emerson Road or from Fowlers or Kanahooka Roads, which already have north-facing ramps.
For years, the lack of south-facing access has forced motorists travelling to or from areas like Shellharbour and Kiama to take lengthy detours via the Princes Highway – adding unnecessary time and congestion, particularly during peak hours.
Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said the investment was crucial as the Illawarra’s population continues to grow, with 100,000 extra residents expected by 2041.
“With the population of the southern Illawarra booming, it’s vital that our investment in essential infrastructure keeps up,” she said.
“These southern ramps are a simple intervention, but one that will have an incredibly positive impact on the way people travel around this region. Work is already underway with the NSW Government completing initial consultation and planning. This additional investment will assist with detailed planning and progressing the project so we can get shovels in the ground sooner.”
More than 4,000 residents have already contributed ideas and feedback in the NSW Government’s consultation process, shaping the next steps for planning. NSW Roads Minister John Graham said community support for the ramps was overwhelming.
“The community has spoken – they want these ramps. Now that $20 million has been committed from State and Federal Governments, the detailed work can be done to ensure south-facing ramps go from being a good idea to an everyday reality.”
The project is particularly critical for West Dapto, where rapid residential growth is increasing pressure on local roads.
Member for Whitlam Stephen Jones said the existing motorway setup had been a longstanding problem for locals.
“The madness of the north-only ramps means my constituents have to double back and forth between the highway and motorway to cover simple trips,” he said.
“Dapto’s north-only ramps have been a headache for locals for too long. This funding means we can finally get on with the job. As new developments spring up in West Dapto, it’s vital we get these ramps up and running so people aren’t caught in endless traffic jams.”
NSW Member for Shellharbour Anna Watson outlined the project’s timeline, emphasising the importance of momentum.
“2023 was the year of commitment, where our community made the case for this investment. 2024 was the year of consultation, where Transport for NSW heard directly from residents and motorists about what they want to see from this project.
“With this additional funding from the Federal Government, 2025 can be the year of detailed planning and development, as we get closer to starting work on this vital project.”
