Ballantyne-Riverbank roundabout work drags in Wānaka

Work on a new roundabout at the intersection of Ballantyne and Riverbank Roads in Wānaka is set to resume on Monday.

Contractor Downer has dropped a flyer to local businesses and residents with an update on what's ahead.

Motorists are being advised of temporary road closures, one lane-only travel, and stop-go traffic management over the following ten weeks.

The Queenstown Lakes District Council-led project kicked off in January and initial indications were it would be completed by June.

But Downer's latest update says the new roundabout is now expected to be fully operational by late October.

Installation of raised pedestrian safety tables and upgrades to stormwater infrastructure are also part of the roundabout project, which the council says is aimed at improving safety for road users on what is a busy intersection.

Improving connectivity between Wastebusters, which is located adjacent to the intersection, and active transport routes is also a stated aim of the works.

Construction work related to the project was paused over the winter months, when conditions were too cold for sealing of surfaces to take place.

What to expect

• From Monday, August 12 until Monday, September 23, the northern section of Riverbank Road will be closed to through traffic between Ballantyne Road and the Mount Iron/State Highway 6 roundabout. Resident access with be available from the Mount Iron/State Highway 6 roundabout, and pedestrian access will also remain. All other entry points at the Ballantyne and Riverbank Roads intersection will be reduced to one lane.
• From Wednesday, September 25 until Friday, October 25, the southern section of Riverbank Road will be closed to through traffic between Ballantyne and Orchard Roads. Resident access will be available from Orchard Road, and pedestrian access will also remain. All other entry points at the Ballantyne and Riverbank Roads intersection will be reduced to one lane.