A renewed push to revive the Beaches Link motorway has brought Seaforth back into discussion as transport planners assess options to ease congestion and improve travel times across Sydney’s northern beaches.
Seaforth Link Reconsidered After Project Cancellation
The Beaches Link is a proposed underground motorway connecting Balgowlah and Seaforth to Cammeray through a tunnel network designed to provide direct access to major freeway routes. The project was first announced in 2017, placed on hold in 2022 due to cost pressures, and formally cancelled in 2023.
Interest in the proposal has resurfaced following the release of a northern beaches transport review in 2026, which has prompted renewed calls to reconsider the tunnel as part of long-term planning for the region.
Travel Time Benefits Remain Central to Proposal
Earlier modelling indicated the project could significantly reduce travel times, including up to 38 minutes between Balgowlah and the Sydney CBD. Additional time savings were projected for routes linking to Sydney Airport and Macquarie Park.
The tunnel was also expected to reduce traffic volumes on key roads, including Spit Road and Warringah Road, which have long experienced congestion during peak travel periods.
Seaforth Part of Broader Network Planning
Current transport planning has prioritised targeted improvements across the northern beaches, including bus priority lanes, upgraded intersections and improved connections to the Metro line at Chatswood. These measures form part of short- to medium-term responses aimed at improving reliability and traffic flow.
Major road upgrades are also progressing, with works on Wakehurst Parkway scheduled for completion by early 2028 and a widening project on Mona Vale Road expected to begin as early as mid-2027, subject to final planning.
Long-Term Options Remain Under Consideration
While the Beaches Link is not currently approved for construction, elements of the project remain in place, including previously acquired properties and provisions for a future connection within existing tunnel works.
The renewed discussion highlights ongoing consideration of how larger-scale infrastructure, including the Seaforth corridor, may fit alongside current upgrades to address transport demand across the northern beaches.
Published 31-Mar-2026
