About this Project

Current forecasts predict that traffic on the SH1 through Warkworth will increase by 110% between 2006 and 2021 linked to general traffic growth and a increase in both regional and local development.    The proposed works are a joint collaboration between NZTA and RDC to manage this expected growth on the SH1 through Warkworth.

Below outlines the proposed works which will be undertaken as part of this project. 

SH1/Hill Street Group of Intersections

At the heart of the network through Warkworth the Hill Street Group of Intersections provides key links between the north and south,  between east and west Warkworth and to the Eastern Beach areas.    The main problem at this location is the number of movements being undertaken at the intersection which affects the overall operation of the intersection and can lead to some driver confusion.

In developing a solution to this complex group of intersections the project team has undertaken a extensive investigation on potential options, many of which were constrained by the environment around the intersection including the varying levels and limited construction space.

The Proposed Solution:

  • Re-alignment and signalisation of Elizabeth Street into the SH1/Hill Street/Matakana Road signals ;
  • Signalisation of Sandspit Road and Matakana Road;
  • Co-ordination of both sets of signals ;
  • Widening at key locations ;
  • Changes to line markings and signing to make the intersection easier to understand ;
  • Additional pedestrian link between Kowhai Reserve and Elizabeth Street in addition to the existing crossing over SH1; and  
  • Improvement to the current walking facilities alongside SH1.

In addition to the above works it has been identified that as traffic continues to grow one traffic movement needs to be removed in the future from this group of intersections to make them work more efficiently.   Of the movements analysed the Hill Street eastbound movement onto SH1 is proven to be the most effective.   The original analysis undertaken in 2006 identified 2012 as being the year where this closure would be most likely.   However, when any closure would come into force is dependent on the capacity and functioning of the intersection which may be beyond this date.  Should the Hill Street group of intersections be close to capacity by 2012 then further investigation of the Hill Street eastbound closure would be undertaken which would involve further consultation with the community. Warkworth SH1 intersections to be improved. Warkworth SH1 intersections to be improved.

Hudson Road Intersection

The proposed solution:

  • Installation of signals at Hudson Road to tie in with the proposed RDC Western Collector Route ; and
  • Widening of the intersection on approach to the new traffic signals. 

Whitaker Road and Woodcocks Road

The proposed solution:

  • Upgrading of the signals at Whitaker Road ;
  • Installation of signals at Woodcocks Road ;
  • Road widening between Woodcocks Road and Whitaker Road ;
  • A dedicated footway/cycleway on the west side of SH1;
  • A new pedestrian crossing linking the east side of SH1 to Woodcocks Road ; and
  • Safety Improvements around Mahurangi College.

McKinney Road Intersection

The proposed solution:

  • Installation of signals at McKinney Road to tie in with the proposed RDC Western Collector Route ;
  • Widening of the intersection on approach to the new traffic signals ;  
  • Safety improvements at Wech Drive Intersection ; and
  • The installation of a southbound passing lane south of the proposed signals at McKinney Road to Valerie Close. 
Hill Street Intersection. Hill Street Intersection