Safety work planned for dangerous intersection on SH1 south of Whangarei

A roundabout could start being built at the intersection of State Highway 1 and Loop Rd, south of Whangarei, by the end of the year.

A notoriously dangerous intersection on Sate Highway 1 just south of Whangarei will get a roundabout and other work designed to improve road safety.

Associate Transport Minister Shane Jones yesterdayannounced safety improvements to the Loop Rd intersection of State Highway 1 and State Highway 15.

The intersection is a critical route between Auckland and Northland and Loop Rd and is the southern end of the inland freight route which connects Northland's forestry sector with the region's port.

The intersection has been the scene of numerous accidents in recent years as the logging truck numbers have increased. Trucks coming along SH15 have to turn right onto SH1 to head to Northport.

''This is a treacherous piece of road and the safety work has been on the books since John Banks was an MP for Whangarei,'' Mr Jones said.

''I made my promise to Whangarei that I'd hound officials to deliver this improvement. There's no room for tardiness and NZTA knows Northland wants practical results and I will make sure this project is delivered quick smart.''

The planned upgrade, which could start in December, includes a new single land roundabout where Loop Rd (North) meets SH1. The Loop Rd (South) access to SH1 will be closed, improving safety for the Portland community.

"The new design will improve visibility of approaching vehicles, and new lane layout and turning bays will help vehicles transition between local roads and the high-speed environment of the state highway," Mr Jones said.

"That's a great community outcome. Anyone who has seen the trucks queuing back along SH15 understands the need to make this intersection safer for all road users. This project will create that safe connection and it will improve the environment for the surrounding communities by removing that queue of freight vehicles. This project meets our priorities for New Zealand's transport system – improving safety, resilience, environment and access, while ensuring we invest in a way that delivers the best value for money.

"Northland needs a safe, resilient transport network that connects people as well as businesses, and projects like Loop Rd will transform this important intersection."

Detailed design for the project is under way. Subject to gaining necessary approvals and property purchases, construction could start as early as December.