Marlborough’s Spring Creek intersection to get safety upgrade

One of the South Island’s highest risk intersections is set for a major safety overhaul, with the NZ Transport Agency confirming the $2.9 million construction funding needed for the upgrade.

The confirmation of funding means work to improve the intersection of State Highway 1, State Highway 62 and Ferry Road at Spring Creek in Marlborough can proceed, with construction expected to begin in late August.

Included in the intersection design is:

· a new roundabout

· traffic islands on all approaches

· a layby on the southern approach to the roundabout so heavy vehicles turning right into Ferry Road can wait safely when a train is approaching

· rail crossing barrier arms for Ferry Road traffic

· a dedicated turning lane left into Ferry Road

· new footpaths and cycle facilities

· landscaping and new signs.

Marlborough Roads Highway Manager Frank Porter says the intersection has a history of crashes and a combination of new infrastructure and improved layout will make it safer.

“In the past 10 years, 32 people have been involved in crashes at the intersection, and nearly 90 percent of these crashes happened while the driver was turning at the intersection.

“State Highway 1 and State Highway 62 are both important routes for travel to and from the Marlborough region. Heavy vehicle operators also rely on these routes to move freight to and from the ferry at Picton. The improved intersection will also increase safety for pedestrians and cyclists. We’re looking forward to getting started on this major improvement, and making journeys through the region safer and more efficient,” Mr Porter says.

Construction is expected to be substantially complete before the busy summer holiday season.

ENDS

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