M1 traffic update: Major delays as metal spill forces closure

Millions of pieces of metal have been scatted by a truck along a 25km route southbound on the M1 between Palmdale and the Mooney Mooney Bridge. The motorway is closed between Ourimbah and the Calga interchange.
 
The Transport Management Centre advise this is not going to be a quick fix. The debris can’t be picked up by regular road sweepers. The trucking company has taken full responsibility and has said damage to cars will be paid through insurance. They are also helping with the clean up.

Shards of metal found on the M1 motorway. Image credit: NSW Rural Fire Service

NRMA member update:

• We have dispatched extra patrols and tows to the areas to support our teams already on the ground.
• Where possible, we’ve brought in patrols who aren’t on shift to help with the extra jobs.
• So far we’ve had more than 200 calls from members who have tyre damage after driving down the M1.
• For drivers who only have one tyre damage, patrols are able to fix on the side of the road, but for cars with multiple wheels damaged, we’re providing tows.
• Wait times for roadside assistance and towing in the Central Coast area are currently 2 hours, so please be patient with our teams. Wait times are at three minutes on the phones or you can use the mynr.ma/app to book roadside assistance.
• For drivers who travelled down the M1 anytime after 5am, please check your tyres. If you don’t know how, go to your local tyre or auto shop and a professional can look over for you.