Coppins Crossing Closure and City Construction to Delay Thursday Commute

Significant Disruptions for Molonglo Valley Residents

Commuters traveling between the Molonglo Valley and Belconnen face major disruptions starting today, Thursday, 12 March 2026. Coppins Crossing Road has been officially closed in both directions between Holborow Avenue and Hazel Hawke Avenue. This closure took effect at 2:00 am this morning and is scheduled to remain in place until 6:00 pm on Saturday, 14 March 2026, to allow for essential roadworks and infrastructure upgrades.

Motorists are advised to utilize John Gorton Drive as the primary detour route. Delays are expected through Denman Prospect and Whitlam as traffic volumes increase on alternative arterials. Traffic marshals and variable message signage are in place to assist with the flow, but residents should allow at least 15 to 20 minutes of additional travel time during the morning and afternoon peaks.

Commonwealth Avenue Bridge and City Center Impacts

In the city center, the ongoing Commonwealth Avenue Bridge renewal project continues to be a primary source of congestion. With the northbound span of the bridge closed for major reconstruction, all traffic remains diverted onto the southbound span. This configuration provides only one lane for general traffic in each direction, alongside a dedicated lane for buses and emergency services. Commuters crossing Lake Burley Griffin should anticipate heavy queuing extending back to Vernon Circle and the Kings Avenue intersection.

Further north, Bunda Street remains closed to all through-traffic between Genge Street and Scotts Crossing. This closure, which began earlier this week, is part of the city’s public realm upgrade program and is expected to continue through mid-April. Motorists seeking to access the Canberra Centre car parks should use Ainslie Avenue or Cooyong Street to avoid the work zone.

Public Transport and Light Rail Updates

Transport Canberra has confirmed several service changes effective today. Due to the Coppins Crossing Road closure, Route 47 is currently operating on a significant diversion. Buses are bypassing the closed section of the road, which may result in missed stops and minor timing delays. Passengers are encouraged to check the MyWay+ app for real-time tracking of their services.

• Route 47: Diverted via John Gorton Drive; allow extra time for Molonglo-to-Belconnen trips.
• Route 54: Continuing diversions around Majura Park due to localized works.
• Light Rail Stage 1: Running on a standard Thursday frequency, though increased pedestrian activity near the Alinga Street terminus due to London Circuit construction requires extra caution.

Commuters are reminded that while the Enlighten Festival has concluded, the construction footprint for Light Rail Stage 2A remains active. Speed limits are strictly enforced at 40km/h through active work zones on Northbourne Avenue and London Circuit East.