Major Metro Shutdown and CBD Procession to Impact Sunday Commute

Significant Disruptions Across Sydney’s Transport Network

Commuters and residents are advised to prepare for a challenging travel day this Sunday, 22 March 2026. A combination of critical infrastructure testing for the Sydney Metro, a major religious procession in the CBD, and the final stages of a massive maritime event will lead to significant delays on both the road and rail networks.

Full Shutdown of M1 Metro Line

The most substantial impact on public transport today is the total closure of the M1 Metro North West & Bankstown Line. No metro services are running between Tallawong and Sydenham all day Sunday. This shutdown is essential for high-speed testing and system integration as Transport for NSW prepares to extend metro services further into the southwest later this year.

• Replacement buses are operating between Tallawong and Chatswood.
• Commuters travelling between Chatswood, the City, and Sydenham are advised to use Sydney Trains services.
• Extra travel time of at least 30 to 45 minutes should be factored into journeys across the northwest corridor.

CBD Road Closures and Bus Diversions

Motorists in the Sydney CBD should avoid the precinct between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM due to the 'Day of the Unborn Procession.' A series of rolling road closures will be in effect, impacting major thoroughfares including Macquarie Street, College Street, Hunter Street, and King Street. Local bus services will be diverted around the event footprint, and some stops will be temporarily closed. Police and traffic marshals will be on-site to manage detours.

International Fleet Review Impacts

Today marks the conclusion of the Royal Australian Navy International Fleet Review. While the primary ceremonial entries occurred yesterday, heavy traffic is expected throughout the morning around key harbour vantage points in Mosman, Manly, and the Eastern Suburbs as spectators gather for the final displays. Maritime exclusion zones remain active across Sydney Harbour until 12:00 PM, which may lead to minor delays for ferry services navigating the inner and outer harbour.

Major Arterial Roadworks

Significant roadworks are scheduled for tonight, particularly affecting those travelling into and out of the city late in the evening:

• Warringah Freeway: A full southbound closure of all lanes between the Lane Cove Tunnel and Mount Street will commence at 11:30 PM tonight and remain in place until 5:00 AM Monday. Motorists should use the Pacific Highway as a detour.
• M1 Princes Motorway: Both directions will be closed between Bulli Tops and Memorial Drive from 8:00 PM tonight for routine maintenance and interchange upgrades. Picton Road will also be closed between the M1 and Wilton during this window.

Commuters are urged to check real-time traffic apps and the Trip Planner before departing. If you must travel through the CBD or the North Sydney corridor, allow significantly more time than usual.