Australia has completed the first phase of the Gateway Motorway project and opened the new north-bound lane for traffic between Sandgate Road and the Deagon Deviation.

The first phase of the Gateway Motorway project included construction of the 2.5km long north-bound lane, widening two bridges over Cabbage Tree Creek and upgrading the overpass and off-ramp at Deport Road at a cost of $99.5m.

"This is Stage 1 of the upgrade and widening of the northern section of the Gateway Motorway, with earth-works recently starting on the next stages, for which the Australian Government has committed $930 million."

The Australian Government has provided $95m for the project while the Queensland Government has contributed $4.5m.

According to Australia acting Prime Minister and infrastructure and regional development minister Warren Truss, the Gateway additional lane project will reduce traffic congestion by serving more than 70,000 motorists.

Truss said: "This is Stage 1 of the upgrade and widening of the northern section of the Gateway Motorway, with earth-works recently starting on the next stages, for which the Australian Government has committed $930 million."

According to Queensland transport and main roads minister Scott Emerson, the bridges were built with the future works on the Gateway Motorway in mind.

Emerson said: "The southbound bridge at Cabbage Tree Creek has been widened in readiness for a future third lane to be built as part of the Gateway Upgrade North project, which is all part of our strong plan for a brighter future.

"The project increases capacity and eases congestion on this heavily used section of the Gateway Motorway.

"This project is part of our infrastructure plan that will see improved driving conditions and travel times for motorists who use this busy stretch every day."