Consultation starts today on a proposal to make some safety improvements to the notoriously tricky intersection where Ilam, Middleton and Riccarton roads meet.

This is one of Christchurch's 10 most dangerous intersections. It's well-known as difficult to navigate because of the off-set alignment of these three busy roads. As a result, there have been many crashes – some very serious.

Traffic crossing the intersection of Ilam, Middleton and Riccarton roads.

Traffic crossing the intersection of Ilam, Middleton and Riccarton roads.

“This intersection’s particular shape, size and location mean we’ve been very limited by what we can do. We investigated 16 options but, after analysis and modelling, only the option we’re consulting on benefits all road users – general traffic, pedestrians, cyclists and bus users,” says Transport Planning and Delivery Manager Lynette Ellis.

“The proposed plan also takes into consideration how we can integrate this project with two future projects: the Nor-West Arc Major Cycleway and the next stage of the Riccarton Road bus priority,” Ms Ellis says.

Changes to the intersection include restricting access to Middleton Road from Riccarton Road to left in and left out, and narrowing Middleton Road at the intersection, to allow more footpath space for pedestrians.

To make sure the proposed safety improvements are effective, and to keep the traffic flowing along Riccarton Road, changes are also needed to other intersections in the area.

“We’re also proposing some vehicle access restrictions from Field Terrace. When combined with what’s planned for Middleton and Ilam roads, this will keep things moving along Riccarton Road. If we only make changes to the Ilam-Middleton-Riccarton intersection, we’ll be impacting on how traffic in general flows, and specifically on how the buses travel,” Ms Ellis says.

You can provide feedback on the proposal until 11 March 2019.