We're proposing a new link redirecting Halswell Junction Road traffic from Foremans Road over a new railway crossing to Waterloo Road.

We're seeking your feedback on this proposal, which is designed to provide a safer, more direct route for road users, especially large trucks moving through this area.

Key features of the project are:

• Creating a new link between Foremans Road and Waterloo Road on a 16 metre wide road corridor that has been agreed with the land owners;

• Construction of a new level crossing, as agreed with KiwiRail;

• Closure of the existing level crossing and Halswell Junction Road at that point; and

• Realignment of Waterloo Road near the current level crossing.

Why we're proposing a new link

This is a Network Management Improvements project to complete a local freight route that supports the Strategic Freight Network and the Roads of National Significance (RoNS) programme.

Community Consultation - 2017

• Community provided feedback on the proposed options for the Halswell Junction Road Extension Project between 1 and 25 September 2017. Three options were presented:
  • Option 1 – New link
  • Option 2 – Upgrade of the existing road link
  • Option 3 – Do nothing
• The proposed plans for Option 1 – new link (the preferred option) were also shared with the community to invite feedback.

Proposed plans for Option 1 - New link

Most of this section of Halswell Junction Road is outside the main project area. However, the Council is taking the opportunity to replace a dirt track beside Leslie Park and build new footpath connections on both sides of the road.

A painted flush median will help direct traffic approaching Main South Road, and some landscaping is proposed.

The Council is also discussing the future of the weighbridge with Fulton Hogan, owner of the adjacent site.

A major realignment of the existing intersection is proposed. It leads into a new, more direct route to Waterloo Business Park and Pound Road.

The initial section includes extensive landscaping and stop controls on Halswell Junction Road and also Foremans Road west, which is upgraded on the south side.

New bus stops and shelters are proposed on both sides of the new link road which will also have a pedestrian refuge and sections of cycle lane leading to shared pedestrian and cycle paths.

A new level rail crossing is a key feature of this project. Integrated rail and traffic signals at the Waterloo Road intersection will manage traffic along this potentially busy route.

A new footpath is proposed while a new shared path will connect to an existing shared path. Painted medians will help define the road layout and additional landscaping is also proposed in the plans.

This section of Halswell Junction Road becomes a cul-de-sac in the proposed scheme. The rail crossing is closed to all traffic, including pedestrians. The nearby turning area for vehicles, including rubbish trucks, is flanked by new trees and landscaping.

The name of this section of the street that is proposed to close will be discussed with affected landowners as part of a separate process.

Community board meeting to discuss proposal - 2018

A Council staff report seeking approval for the proposed link road from Foremans Road to Waterloo Road was considered by the Halswell-Hornby-Riccarton Community Board on Tuesday 30 January 2018.

Of the 81 submissions received, 58 respondents generally supported the proposed plans, with 12 saying they wanted the plans implemented as soon as possible. Twenty three submitters expressed concerns about a range of issues including facilities for cyclists, access, parking availability and landscaping.

The following changes have been recommended by staff in the plans for approval:

• Shared paths on both sides of the new link road between Waterloo Road and Foremans Road.
• The southbound bus shelter has been moved slightly south to allow the new shared path to be located behind the shelter, removing any conflict with bus passengers.
• The road has been widened slightly to the north of the new level crossing to allow a wider flush median that can be used by vehicles turning into the new driveway for 370 Waterloo Road.
• An indented mobility space will be located on Halswell Junction Road outside the premises of Fulton Hogan.
• Consultation summary
• Submitters' comments and project team responses
• Plans for approval
  

Updated plans for Option 1 - New link