The M5 East Motorway is a critical road link and one of the most controversial infrastructure projects ever undertaken in Sydney. It was completed in 2001 and carries approximately 75,000 vehicles every day. It remains the longest road tunnel in NSW. The final route and design addressed complex urban issues such as proximity to established residences, urban bushland conservation and tunnel ventilation.

Manidis Roberts worked with the Roads and Traffic Authority (NSW) between 1993 and 1997 to gain planning approval. This was the RTA’s third attempt and the first to successfully achieve planning approval. As part of this process, we developed a robust assessment process that withstood analysis in the NSW Land and Environment Court. We also managed the most comprehensive community consultation program ever undertaken in NSW at the time.