Work on a new roundabout for the intersection of Ballantyne and Riverbank roads is set to resume next week (Monday August 12).

The roundabout project began in January this year but it has been on ‘pause’ since early June to allow motorists to use the intersection over most of the winter.

The plans, estimated to cost $2.25M, have been designed to improve safety at the busy intersection and enhance connectivity for active travel along a section of Ballantyne Road through to Wastebusters with raised pedestrian safety tables leading into the roundabout.

The roundabout should be “fully operational” by late October according to a statement from Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) and contractor Downer. 

The statement, which was sent to nearby residents, warned that during the ten-week period from August 12 there will be some temporary road closures, one-way traffic and ‘stop/go’ operations at the intersection.

Between August 12 and September 23 the northern section of Riverbank Road will be closed to through traffic between Ballantyne Road and the Mt Iron roundabout.

Resident access for the northern section of Riverbank Road will be available from the Mt Iron roundabout while all other entry points at the Ballantyne Road and Riverbank Road intersection will be reduced to one lane of traffic and stop/go will be operating.

During this time, crews will work on entry points to the roundabout.

From September 25 until October 25 the southern section of Riverbank Road will be closed to through traffic between Ballantyne Road and Orchard Road as work shifts to the other side of the roundabout.

Resident access for the southern side of Riverbank Road will be available from Orchard Road and other entry points to the intersection will have one way traffic and stop/go operations.

The project is partially funded by the Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA).

PHOTO: Wānaka App

Read more: Temporary roundabout in place at least until spring