A planned motorway extension in southern Hungary could create a new road connection with Croatia, potentially boosting regional trade and tourism. While preparations are reportedly advancing on the Croatian side, the Hungarian section of the proposed M60 motorway still depends on decisions by the government.
New motorway could connect Hungary to Croatia
Direct discussions have begun between Hungarian and Croatian representatives about extending the M60 towards the border near Barcs in southern Hungary and Virovitica in Croatia. However, while land acquisition and property preparations are reportedly under way in Croatia, similar progress has yet to become apparent on the Hungarian side.
Barcs mayor Erika Anderné Röszler outlined the latest developments at a local council meeting, stressing that better transport links are essential if the region is to attract investment and more visitors. “We cannot expect an economic recovery in our region as long as we have to travel on roads like these, whether towards Pécs or Kaposvár,” she said, adding that the municipality had sent its questions and concerns to Hungary’s Ministry of Transport and Investment, writes Sonline.hu.
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A new bridge across the Dráva
The proposed project would extend the M60 from Pécs towards Barcs and the Croatian border, where a new bridge across the Dráva River would connect the two countries’ road networks. According to the latest route plan cited by the Barcs mayor, the new border bridge would be built approximately 500 metres from the existing Dráva crossing. Croatian officials are aware of the proposed alignment and are reportedly planning accordingly.
One proposal under discussion is to invite Hungary’s foreign minister and transport minister to Virovitica for a joint site visit, with representatives from both countries involved. Local councillor Gábor Remes has also called for a high-level government meeting to help secure progress on the cross-border agreement.
The project could have implications beyond Barcs. Kaposvár is also seeking improved links to the national motorway network, with the city’s mayor, Károly Szita, describing better connections between the M7 and M6 motorways as a strategic economic priority.
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What is the current status of the M60?
Planning for the Hungarian section is divided into three stages: a 37-kilometre stretch between Pécs and west of Szigetvár; a 28-kilometre section between Szigetvár and Barcs; and a final three-kilometre section linking Barcs to the border via the proposed Dráva bridge.
According to information from the ministry’s investment portal, environmental impact and feasibility studies have been completed for the first two sections, and an environmental permit has been issued. Authorisation plans are being prepared for the first section, while the location of the border crossing and its connection with main road 6 must be determined for the final section. Planning for the second section is expected to follow.
The motorway could offer a significant improvement in accessibility for southern Hungary and strengthen links with neighbouring Croatia. However, the project remains in the planning and preparation stages, and no construction timetable has been confirmed in the information provided. Its eventual delivery will depend on further decisions and coordination between the two countries.
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