28 Jan, 2016
Hindley Street West Remedial Works
City of Adelaide will shortly proceed with works to remove stone pavers and resurface a section of Hindley Street West roadway with asphalt to rectify traction issues on the road.
Council’s primary consideration in rectifying the traction issues with the pavers is to ensure safety for everyone who uses Hindley Street West as well as minimising disruption to traders.
The works will result in an improved, long-term road surface with acceptable skid resistance and amenity.
Works have been planned at a time that is least disruptive to all stakeholders and are scheduled to be completed over four nights starting Monday 1 February 2016. The roadway will be open to traffic during daylight hours.
Council is working closely with all stakeholders and business owners to provide information about the works.
Jointly funded by the University of South Australia, Commonwealth Government, the State Government and City of Adelaide, the Hindley Street West project, completed in June 2014, was designed to create a pedestrian-friendly, innovative mixed traffic environment in the growing education and health precinct.
Lord Mayor Martin Haese acknowledged that the interim road surface solution to address the traction issues had started to deteriorate over recent months but added that it did improve the skid resistance and allowed enough time for Council to consider its options which has led to the decision to lay a new asphalt surface.
“Safety for all road users is paramount which is why we are now acting quickly to rectify the road surface issues and provide a fix that will last for up to 25 years,” said Martin.
He said the overall investment in the area had been worth it.
“Besides the road works, the Hindley Street activation project has delivered wider footpaths, the introduction of green elements such as mature trees and garden beds, improved street lighting and the addition of street furniture, creating a greener and cleaner new environment.
“Hindley Street West is safer, it’s activated, it has people staying on once the sun sets, and after their university studies have finished for the day,” said Martin.
“There are many vacant tenancies now occupied with businesses opening up and confirming their confidence in the West End, and its future is very bright.”
Hindley Street is a key part of creating improved and natural links within the West End Precinct to new developments on North Terrace including the SA Medical and Health Research Institute and the new Royal Adelaide Hospital. A thriving Hindley Street assists with the renewal and activation of the West End Precinct, and promotes increased connectivity to Light Square and North Terrace.
The estimated total cost of the works is $160,000 and Council will explore opportunities for recycling the existing pavers. The full cost of the works are being borne by Council, however Council and UniSA are attempting to resolve the matter commercially with the contracting parties and are considering pursuing contractual remedies if necessary.