Local Delays Expected Near Mermaid Beach and Helensvale as Construction Continues

Gold Coast Traffic and Commute Update: Sunday, 1 February 2026

Commuters and weekend travelers across the Gold Coast should prepare for a mix of smooth motorway conditions and specific local disruptions today. While the major upgrades to the M1 Pacific Motorway have significantly improved north-south transit, several localized roadworks and ongoing light rail construction projects will require extra travel time in key coastal and northern suburbs.

Major Road Closures and Work Zones

Several significant road closures remain in effect today according to the latest reports from the Department of Transport and Main Roads. Motorists are advised to plan alternative routes for the following areas:

• Helensvale: Buckler Drive remains closed to all traffic between Cyan Street and the Town Centre Drive roundabout. This includes the Town Centre Drive bridge. Local detours are in place, but those heading toward the shopping precinct should expect minor delays.
• Mermaid Beach & Nobby Beach: Portions of the Gold Coast Highway and its adjacent service roads are closed to all traffic due to planned roadworks. These closures are particularly impactful for those accessing local businesses and beachfront parking.
• Arundel: The eastbound off-ramp to Smith Street from the Smith Street Motorway is currently closed. Drivers heading toward the Health Knowledge Precinct or the Broadwater from the west should utilize alternative exits.

Light Rail Stage 3 Construction

Construction on the Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 continues to progress through the southern corridor. Between Broadbeach South and Burleigh Heads, the Gold Coast Highway is subject to frequent lane reductions. Specifically, commuters should watch for:

• Lane closures and reduced speed limits between Miami and Burleigh Heads to facilitate track installation and utility works.
• Possible night work residue near Miami North, where testing and commissioning activities have been scheduled during the late-night and early-morning windows.
• Increased pedestrian activity near temporary bus stop relocations along the highway.

M1 Pacific Motorway and Public Transport

In a win for long-distance commuters, the M1 Pacific Motorway is reporting mostly clear conditions following the completion of major widening packages between Varsity Lakes and Tugun. The 10-kilometer stretch is now fully operational with three lanes in each direction, though travelers should always remain alert for routine maintenance crews.

Translink services are currently running to their standard Sunday schedules. There are no major track closures reported for the Gold Coast Line today, making the train an excellent alternative for those traveling to Brisbane or seeking to avoid the construction zones in Mermaid Beach.

Commuter Advice

If you are heading to the southern beaches, consider using the M1 and exiting closer to your destination to bypass the localized work zones on the Gold Coast Highway. For those visiting the Southport CBD, traffic is expected to be steady, and public transport via the existing light rail remains the most efficient option for accessing the Broadwater Parklands.