The long-awaited M1 Motorway extension has moved a step closer with the state government calling for registrations of interest from pre-qualified contractors to build the $2 billion road.
In a joint press release on Monday, the state and federal governments announced the 15-kilometre link between Black Hill and Raymond Terrace would be delivered using two collaborative design and construct contracts.
The call for ROIs comes after early consultation with the industry and the release of the project's environmental impact statement in July.
"Discussions with the construction industry were held as part of the market interaction process, which provided valuable insights into the views of the industry and helped to determine the best delivery approach," Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin said.
"Transport for NSW will work with short-listed tenderers, and then the successful contractors, to consider and incorporate innovations proposed by industry, ensuring value for money delivery of the project benefits."
The federal government has committed $1.6 billion to the project with the state expected to fund the remaining cost.
Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce said the road was predicted to support 2700 jobs over its life cycle.
"This game-changing project will help ease congestion for the 25,000 vehicles that use this stretch between Newcastle and Maitland every day, helping to keep freight, commuters and tourists moving," he said.
Deputy Premier Paul Toole said the project was the final "missing link" between the state's southern and northern borders.
"We have already crossed the finish line on the $15 billion Pacific Highway upgrade, duplicating the 657-kilometre stretch between Hexham and the Queensland border, and are powering ahead with the 14-kilometre Coffs Harbour bypass," he said.
"Our focus is now turning to this final section - with demand on the road network in the Hunter only anticipated to increase as populations grow, the M1 extension to Raymond Terrace will provide improved traffic flow and increased connectivity, while ensuring better access to the road network for local traffic."
The M1 extension has been planned since 2004.
The EIS released in July said motorists would save about nine minutes using the road.
