The upgraded M7 Motorway is now open. For freight operators and businesses that rely on Western Sydney's road network, the changes are significant: more lanes, less congestion and a direct connection to Western Sydney International Airport via the M12.
A bigger, better M7
26 kilometres of the M7 have been widened, with a new third lane added in each direction. The upgrade gives the M7 capacity for up to 30,000 additional vehicles a day.
Already, drivers using the M7 are saving up to 35 minutes northbound and 32 minutes southbound during peak periods compared with non-tolled routes. Motorists can save up to 13 minutes on a peak-hour trip between Marsden Park and Liverpool.
What this means for freight operators
Heavy vehicles make up 14% of all M7 traffic, and the NSW freight task is forecast to grow by close to 50% by 2036. The new M7/M12 Interchange connects directly to the Western Sydney Airport freight precinct, which will open with a capacity of 220,000 tonnes per annum.
Even after paying the toll, freight operators on certain routes are estimated to gain a net benefit of around $39 per trip, thanks to faster journeys and lower fuel and vehicle costs.
To drive on the M7 and M12 and avoid extra fees on top of your tolls, make sure your Linkt commercial account is active and up to date.