We are making safety improvements to SH6 between Woodbourne and Springlands. As part of this project, we will be installing a roundabout at the Saint Leonards Road and Bells Road intersection. We are also planning on installing a second roundabout at Tancred Crescent and SH6 intersection.
The road on State Highway 6 (SH6) between Woodbourne and Springlands, in Blenheim is an undivided two-lane highway. This road provides a range of important access to the Marlborough Airport, schools, businesses, and healthcare facilities. It is also a route used by transport operators to move freight across the Marlborough area and connect to other state highways.
Between 2015–2019 there has been 14 crashes on this section of road, 12 of these at the intersections we are constructing roundabouts, and two of these classified serious crashes.
The project includes two roundabouts. One roundabout installed at the St Leonards Road and Bells Road intersection. We are also planning on installing a second roundabout at Tancred Crescent and SH6 intersection. Tancred Crescent provides access to the Marlborough Airport.
To make sure people are safer at the Jacksons Road intersection, an Intersection Speed Zone (ISZ) is proposed to be installed. This is within the Interim Speed Management Plan which is running as a separate project and approval for the ISZ has not been confirmed.
Roundabouts make it easier for people by simplifying decision making and reducing the impact of errors people may make. With one clear direction to focus on, it’s easier for people to choose the right time to enter the flowing traffic.
Everyone slows down as they approach the roundabout, which encourages safe and alert behaviour. Everyone is prepared to potentially stop and give way.
Roundabouts can reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured because they significantly reduce the chance of head on, and side impact crashes and vehicle speeds are lower. While crashes may still happen, they are less likely to result in people being killed or seriously injured.
CloseThe construction of a new roundabout on SH6 at the intersection of Bells and St Leonards roads will start from Tuesday 16 January to Friday 24 May 2024.
There will be different detours in place over the construction period. Below is a map that shows the full detours in place for each of the four stages of construction.
Download printable Stage 1 map [PDF, 108 KB]
Download printable Stage 2 map [PDF, 101 KB]
Download printable Stage 3 map [PDF, 103 KB]
Download printable Stage 4 map [PDF, 102 KB]
Cyclists will also be catered for. We are creating an unsealed track around the worksite along the northern perimeter of the project until construction is completed. People cycling from Blenheim to Renwick/Nelson can do so as usual on SH6. People cycling from Nelson/Renwick to Blenheim will have a newly created unsealed off-road track around the work site to use while construction is happening.
Works will take place during the day between the hours of 7am and 7pm. Generally, works will be undertaken on weekdays with some weekend work as required.
We will keep you updated as we move through each stage.
For your safety and the safety of our road crews, please drive carefully and follow the direction of traffic management. On behalf of Waka Kotahi, thank you in advance for your patience while we do this important work in your community. We apologise, for any inconvenience this work may cause you.
Residents close to the work site may experience some noise, lights, and vibration while the work is being undertaken. We will do our best to minimise disruption where possible and appreciate your understanding.
Emergency services will be always accommodated.
If you would like to speak to someone before or when work is in progress, please call us.
