Commuter Alert: Significant Delays Through Helensvale and Burleigh This Thursday

Gold Coast Commute Outlook for Thursday, February 5, 2026

Commuters across the Gold Coast should prepare for a challenging morning and afternoon peak this Thursday, February 5, 2026. While the recent opening of the Coomera Connector Stage 1 North has eased some pressure on the M1, significant roadworks and bridge construction in the Helensvale and Arundel corridors are expected to cause localized congestion and detours.

Major Arteries and Motorway Updates

The M1 Pacific Motorway remains generally free-flowing through the Varsity Lakes to Tugun stretch following the completion of the major VL2T upgrade. However, the northern Gold Coast remains a hotspot for activity. Specifically, in Helensvale, the ongoing construction of the Coomera Connector Central package has necessitated the closure of Buckler Drive between Cyan Street and the Town Centre Drive roundabout. This closure is required for essential bridge work and is expected to impact those accessing the local shopping precincts and schools. Motorists are advised to follow the signposted detours via Helensvale Road.

Additionally, a significant closure is in effect at the Smith Street Off-Ramp in Arundel. The eastbound access ramp to Smith Street from the Smith Street Motorway is currently closed for planned roadworks. This will likely force traffic to divert through alternate interchanges, potentially leading to heavy tailbacks on the M1 during the morning rush as drivers navigate toward Southport and the Griffith University precinct.

Light Rail Construction and Coastal Delays

Coastal commuters along the Gold Coast Highway should allow for extra travel time as Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 works continue to dominate the Miami and Burleigh Heads corridor. Single-lane arrangements are frequently in place as crews focus on the southern section of the track and utility installations. Specifically, localized road closures have been noted on the Gold Coast Highway Service Road near Mermaid Beach and Nobby Beach, which may restrict access to local businesses.

In Burleigh Heads, expect reduced speed limits and changed traffic movements near the intersection of West Burleigh Road and the Gold Coast Highway. These changes are part of the complex track-laying process designed to transition the light rail toward its final Burleigh destination by mid-2026.

Local Road Closures and Detours

• Palm Beach: Part closures remain in effect at Nineteenth Avenue and Dogwood Drive to facilitate M1 upgrade-related works.
• Hope Island: A full closure is reported on Grant Avenue for construction, requiring residential detours.
• Ormeau: Commuters using Prairie Road should note that while long-term closures for the Ormeau Rail Facility are reaching a milestone, local traffic management remains in place for site access.

Public Transport and Translink Reminders

Translink has not reported any major rail outages for the Gold Coast line this Thursday; however, several bus stops in the Burleigh Heads and Miami areas have been temporarily relocated due to the Light Rail construction. Passengers are encouraged to check the Translink app before departing to ensure their regular stop is active. Those heading into Brisbane should be aware of standard peak-hour congestion on the Beenleigh line but no scheduled track work is slated for today.