Lane Merges on Gold Coast Highway and Rail Timetable Changes This Thursday

Gold Coast Traffic and Commute Update: Thursday, 12 February 2026

Good morning, Gold Coast commuters. As we head into the back half of the week, significant infrastructure projects continue to shape travel times across the region. Motorists and public transport users should prepare for a mix of ongoing construction bottlenecks and adjusted rail schedules throughout the day.

Major Roadworks and Lane Closures

The most substantial impact on north-south travel remains the Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 construction. Commuters using the Gold Coast Highway should be aware of the following:

• Miami to Burleigh Heads: The Gold Coast Highway remains reduced to a single lane in both directions between Dawn Parade and West Burleigh Road. This arrangement is expected to cause significant congestion during peak morning and afternoon periods.
• Mermaid Beach: Planned roadworks are affecting the Gold Coast Highway and its adjacent service roads near Nobby Beach, with partial closures and localized diversions in place.
• Arundel: The eastbound access ramp to Smith Street from the Smith Street Motorway remains closed. Drivers are advised to use alternative routes through Gaven or Parkwood.
• Helensvale: Buckler Drive is closed to all traffic between Cyan Street and the Town Centre Drive roundabout due to bridge works. Residents and visitors to the Town Centre should utilize Siganto Drive.

M1 Pacific Motorway Conditions

While the main thoroughfare of the M1 is largely flowing well, localized works continue near the southern exits. In Palm Beach, construction related to the M1 upgrade project has led to part closures and reduced speed limits on Nineteenth Avenue and Dogwood Drive. These conditions are expected to persist through late February, so allow extra time when exiting the motorway at Palm Beach or Tugun.

Public Transport Alerts

Translink has confirmed that the Gold Coast rail line is currently operating under a modified weekday timetable due to ongoing network-wide upgrades. Additionally, commuters heading toward Brisbane should take note of the following:

• Suncorp Stadium Diversions: Starting today, special event services and diversions are in place for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. While this primarily affects Brisbane-bound travel, it may lead to increased patronage and slight delays on connecting Gold Coast services.
• Weekend Warning: A major weekend track closure is scheduled to begin tomorrow night, Friday 13 February, from 11:00 PM. Rail replacement buses will be active from Friday night through Sunday between Boggo Road and Varsity Lakes.

Commuter Advice

With single-lane conditions through Miami and Burleigh, we recommend those traveling between the southern suburbs and Surfers Paradise consider using Bermuda Street as an alternative to the Gold Coast Highway. If using the rail network, double-check the Translink app for real-time departure shifts before leaving home.