03 Oct, 2013

Ongoing Victoria Square Traffic Restrictions

Commuters are being advised of ongoing temporary traffic restrictions around Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga, with the central roadway linking Grote and Wakefield Streets, to remain closed until early November.

Victoria Square redevelopment project manager, Tom Playford, said the traffic restrictions are necessary as a result of the nature of the paving works, recent wet weather, and the discovery of underground piping with asbestos.

“Safety is our first and foremost priority, and while professionals have been engaged to appropriately remove and eradicate the asbestos, we have to allow adequate time to ensure this and associated works are carried out properly,” he said.

“There is no harm or risk to the community and a fully certified and licensed asbestos removal company have removed the asbestos, but unfortunately to do this properly additional time has been required.

“The curing time of the grout between the pavers on the central roadway is critical to the structural integrity of the road surface (to ensure the road is strong enough to safely carry the weight of cars and buses). Together with the recent wet weather conditions, the curing time of the pavers has been slowed.

“While we know it’s disrupting for road users, it hasn’t impacted our completion date with our contractors working to make sure the project is ready for the Tour Down Under in 2014.

“We’re doing everything we can to minimise delays and to notify road users and local businesses. Alternative routes are available, while tram and bus timetables will continue as scheduled.”

The central roadway is being transformed into a temporary plaza for events. Space will be made for a dedicated bus lane and there will be a pedestrian path and bicycle lanes in the northern and southern side of the Square. The flag poles will remain in the centre of the Square.

Stage One of the revamp will also see the creation of a lawned community events space and promenade with seating and shade, as well as ‘plug and play’ infrastructure for mobile and pop-up activities.

Safer lighting, new public toilets, drinking fountains, bike racks, garden beds and a water play fountain will also be installed, thanks to the redevelopment.

For more information about the Victoria Square upgrade visit: www.victoriasquareadelaide.com.au

To plan your journey go to www.smartmoveadelaide.com.au and www.adelaidemetro.com.au

Victoria Loughhead