Roundabouts go permanent

The roundabout at the intersection of Arthur and Russell Sts. Photo: Gregor Richardson

Work starts this month on roundabouts at the intersections of Arthur and Russell Sts and Maori Rd in City Rise; Manor Pl and Melville St in the central city; and Tainui Rd and Dundonald St in Tainui.

The projects are expected to be completed by the end of next month, at a cost of about $850,000.

"These trial roundabouts were installed about two years ago because of traffic safety problems at these intersections," Dunedin City Council transport group manager Jeanine Benson said adding permanent roundabouts would be safer for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.

Traffic islands would be installed where there was space and most roads would have pedestrian refuge areas.

Each centre circle would be raised but could be mounted by vehicles, if necessary.

Kerb extensions at the Manor Pl intersection would be reduced in size for better access by fire engines, Ms Benson said.

Work would start on the Arthur St roundabout on Monday, the Melville St roundabout from May 17 and at Tainui Rd from May 24.

Road closures and detours would be in place for the work.