From Wednesday, work will get under way to install safe speed platforms, add cycle lanes, remove slip lanes, and update on-street parking around Riccarton Rd, Hansons Ln, Waimairi Rd and on Main South Rd at Curletts Rd.
A new signalised pedestrian crossing will be added on Waimairi Rd outside the Bush Inn Centre, and speed humps will be introduced on several local streets to help slow traffic and improve safety.
City council transport operations manager Stephen Wright said it is a busy area with people travelling to school, Canterbury University, work, the shops, or across the community.
“We’re making improvements to intersections and crossing points in Upper Riccarton to make it safer and easier for everyone to get around, regardless of how they travel,” Wright said.
“Whether you’re driving to work or home again, visiting whānau and friends, or letting tamariki walk, scoot, or bike to school, you should be able to do it safely.”
There were 35 reported crashes at the intersection of Riccarton Rd, Hansons Ln and Waimairi Rd over the last 10 years, including incidents where a motorcyclist was killed and another seriously injured.
Construction is expected to continue until the middle of October, with work scheduled overnight to minimise disruption. Some on-street parking will be temporarily removed during this period.
Waimairi Rd will be closed between Riccarton Ave and Bowen St from 9pm-6am throughout August. Detours will be in place during this time.
Public feedback on the plans was received in November and December 2023. The safety improvements were then approved by the Waipuna Halswell-Hornby-Riccarton Community Board and council.
Options to improve the Main South, Yaldhurst and Riccarton Rd intersection will be considered by councillors at an upcoming meeting.
Any approved layout changes approved at the intersection will not be constructed until a later date.
