Sydney Airport warns of traffic congestion as roadworks begin

Travellers are warned to give themselves extra time when driving to Sydney Airport from this week as work begins on upgrading the road network at the T1 International terminal.

Some parts of T1's outdoor car park will be temporarily fenced off during construction, although the airport says that additional spaces will be made available in the multi-storey car park.

From July 28th the car park entrance on Cooks River Drive will be permanently closed.

By year's end the terminal will boast a new centre road to provide better traffic circulation through the T1 precinct, with the car park's entry and exit gates relocated "to provide faster entry and exits" according to Sydney Airport.

There will also be "a larger, purpose-built pick-up area to make pick-ups and drop-offs easier and quicker."

It's all a matter of pain before gain says Craig Norton, Sydney Airport's General Manager Parking and Ground Transport.

"Sydney Airport is investing in these works at the International terminal to significantly improve the journey to and from the airport for passengers and visitors alike."

“While we are undertaking these upgrades, we do anticipate some traffic delays, particularly in traditionally busy periods such as school holidays and weekends."

Norton suggests that travellers check the Sydney Airport website and @SydneyAirport Twitter channel for any daily updates on the T1 roadworks before heading to the airport.

Motorists approaching T1 are advised to watch for signs indicating changed traffic conditions, while additional airport ground staff will be on hand to direct motorists around the affected roads and parking areas.

The work at T1 is part of a five-year, $300 million program which also includes a revamp of ground transportation for the T2/T3 Domestic terminal precinct.

This will include widening Joyce Drive and General Holmes Drive (between O’Riordan Street and Mill Pond Road) to three lanes in each direction, and replacing the level railway crossing for the Port Botany freight line at General Holmes Drive with a road underpass linking General Holmes Drive, Botany Road and Wentworth Avenue.

Read: Sydney Airport promises to cut traffic congestion

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David Flynn

David Flynn is the Editor-in-Chief of Executive Traveller and a bit of a travel tragic with a weakness for good coffee, shopping and lychee martinis.