Ah, the joy of the new highway. When the new strip opened, including the new river crossing to the east of the existing old narrow iron bridge, cheeky locals even played cricket on the old highway to demonstrate how quiet it had become.

Not to say though that the bypass has hurt the town. Take a look around and Macksville is more inviting than ever.

The trucks which mostly only ever were just passing through are gooone. And the river town has taken on a new lease of life, complete with a recent flurry of street tree plantings.

So, reflect with thanks, the drama unfolding tonight, at the remaining pinch points on our road network courtesy of the Transport Management Centre:

Traffic remains heavy on some major roads as motorists return from the Easter break.

Southwest of Sydney:

Northbound traffic is heavy on the Hume Motorway from Aylmerton to Wilton, adding around 50 minutes travel time.

North of Sydney:

Southbound traffic is heavy on the M1 Pacific Motorway from Morisset to Warnervale, adding around 30 minutes travel time.

On the North Coast:

Motorists should allow around 20 minutes extra travel time northbound on the Pacific Highway approaching Woodburn.

In the Blue Mountains:

Eastbound traffic is heavy on the Great Western Highway from Mount Victoria to Blackheath.

Eastbound traffic is heavy on Bells Line of Road from Bilpin to North Richmond.

On the South Coast:

Motorists should allow around ten minutes extra travel time northbound on the Princes Highway at Albion Park Rail.

Northbound traffic has eased on the Princes Highway at Bomaderry.

Motorists are advised to plan ahead, allow plenty of time, and check the latest traffic conditions at www.livetraffic.com.

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