10 October 2012

Improvements at Glenbrook-Kingseat Trouble Spot

Auckland Transport and the New Zealand Police have today unveiled a new crash reduction initiative for the intersection of Glenbrook Road and Kingseat Road, in response to safety concerns raised over the intersection by the Franklin Local Board and local residents.

The initiative consists of new 70km/h speed zone signs on Glenbrook Road either side of the intersection. Today the signs were turned on. The new variable speed limit is a first for the Auckland region, and forms part of a national ‘Rural Intersection Activated Warning Signs’ trial that required special approval by the NZTA. The initiative is being trialled because a permanent speed limit reduction at the intersection was not possible under existing legislation.

The change means the speed limit on Glenbrook Road will reduce from 100km/h to 70km/h ONLY when the flashing 70km/h signs are in operation. This occurs either when a vehicle is approaching the intersection along Kingseat Road, or when a vehicle on Glenbrook Road is turning right into Kingseat Road. (see attached photo).

Local Board chairman Andy Baker says “I am pleased to see the beginning of the much needed changes at this deadly intersection. Whilst we wait for the construction of the roundabout, people must now adjust their speed when required and remain extremely alert and vigilant at the intersection no matter which direction they are travelling in. Drivers need to be aware of the flashing signs signalling when the lowered limit applies and reduce their speed accordingly”.

Local police will initially give warnings to motorists exceeding the new lowered speed limit and then will issue infringement notices after a 28-day grace period.

Auckland Transport will also be distributing postcards to schools, community groups and major employers in the area explaining the new variable speed zone. (copy attached)

Other changes have already been made to improve safety at the intersection including increasing the size of the stop signs on both Kingseat Road approaches, advance stop warning signs with backing boards on the Kingseat Road northbound approach 200 metres from the intersection, and additional advanced intersection warning signage.

Mr Baker says good progress is being made on the proposal for a roundabout at the intersection. Auckland Transport says the purchase of the additional land needed to build the roundabout has been completed. An application has been submitted to the NZTA for government funding.

It is hoped work on the roundabout can begin over the summer, and be completed within four months.

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