Work to start on intersection upgrade

Tuesday 25 May, 2021

Work will start on upgrading one of the busiest intersections in town from Monday 31 May, as a new roundabout will be at the intersection of Calala Lane and Campbell Road.

Both lanes of Calala Lane will remain open during peak traffic periods while construction takes place over the next four months. A small section of Campbell Road will be one way for parts of construction, with traffic to be diverted via Osprey Way.

Tamworth Regional Council Director of Regional Services, Peter Resch said that staff have been working closely with impacted stakeholders to ensure the safety of pedestrians and road users.

“While there may be some disruptions to traffic during construction, these will be kept to a minimum and outside of morning and afternoon peak traffic periods”.

“Those driving into town for work are encouraged to plan their trip accordingly, as the speed limit through the construction site will be reduced to 40km/h,” said Mr Resch.

A range of options were considered for this intersection, however, traffic volumes both now and into the future do not meet the minimum requirements set by Transport for NSW for a signalised intersection. This conclusion was reached using extensive traffic and pedestrian count data, a conservative estimate of future growth and computer aided modelling in accordance with current design standards.

“The design is compliant with all professional engineering standards such as the Austroads Guide to Road Design, including consideration to pedestrian safety” said Mr Resch.

“Our staff will continue to communicate with impacted stakeholders during the construction period to help answer any questions or concerns about this project”.

Access to the nearby shopping centre will be maintained at all times. The school crossing and bus stops impacted by construction will be temporarily moved to a safe and nearby distance from the construction site. These changes are as follows, which will be clearly signed on-site:

• The school crossing of Calala Lane between Campbell Road and Boronia Avenue will be temporarily relocated outside of the construction site, and will remain supervised during peak school periods.
• The bus stop on Calala Lane located in front of Calala Inn will be temporarily relocated closer to Osprey Way.
• Pedestrians crossing Campbell Road will be safely diverted around the construction site as required.

Tamworth Regional Council is committed to creating a safe road network that will help cater for future growth in Calala and the wider Tamworth region.