‘It is an honour for Studio Colin Polwarth, in association with CONTEXT, to be selected by John Holland and WSO Co to lead the urban and landscape design of the major M7–M12 Integration (M7M12IP) project for Transport for NSW.

Our role included leading the design of the widening of the M7 and integrating the M12 interchange into the motorway network servicing the new Western Sydney International Airport. The original M7 Motorway—on which Colin Polwarth was lead designer for CM+ with CONTEXT remains one of NSW’s most recognisable and high-quality urban and landscape infrastructure projects, celebrated for its multiple award winning, elegant, environmental and community-focused design over the past 25 years.

The M7 Motorway widening and M7-M12 Interchange provided a rare opportunity to extend, upgrade and enhance the original motorway vision. The project included the widening of some 41 bridges, increased Cumberland Woodland native planting, new gantries and a noise wall, and the integration of Aboriginal sculptures throughout the roadscape.

As lead consultant, we worked closely with renowned Aboriginal design consultancy Balarinji, together with a team of local Aboriginal artists, to create a unifying Dharug narrative along the corridor. This included the extension of language and the delivery of approximately 12 major sculptures and interpretive signs that shape a continuous cultural journey.

Six new rest areas now augment the shared path, providing shaded places to pause and take in views along the grade-separated shared path. The path connects Casula to Quakers Hill, linking railway stations, Olympic and local sporting facilities, schools, and the Western Sydney Parklands into a unified, sophisticated artistic and cultural experience. These upgraded amenities invite everyone—particularly the culturally diverse communities of Western Sydney—to engage with the landscape and learn about the Dharug history of the area.

The Light Horse Interchange sculpture and its Aboriginal interpretation, along with the original red poles, native grasses and interpretive panels, have been revitalised as part of the upgrade. Together, they continue to commemorate the loss of horses and men on their return from theatres of war, ensuring the place remains meaningful for the wider community for years to come.

The M7-M12 Integration project will make movement across Western Sydney easier, safer and more comfortable for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians, while enhancing the overall journey experience. The new urban and landscape design at the M7/M12 Interchange—featuring soaring, elegant viaducts illuminated with coloured lighting at night—establishes this interchange as one of the most refined and elegant of its type in New South Wales.

The team comprised:

Transurban, WSO Co., Transport for NSW, NorthWestern Roads, John Holland, Studio Colin Polwarth, CONTEXT, Balarinji, Jacobs, SMEC, BG&E, Webb Australia and Aurecon.