Improving safety at the Swanson Road and North Candia Road Intersection

About the project

We are upgrading this intersection to respond to safety issues raised by the community. This will make walking, cycling and driving safer and easier, so everyone gets where they need to and home safely.

The changes we're making

• New traffic lights and traffic light-controlled crossings on each approach to the intersection
• New wider footpath, pram crossings, tactile pavers, cycle ramps and cycle boxes
• Reconstruct driveways that will be affected by the changes
• Removal of 2 trees and some tree canopies trimmed down to facilitate the wider footpath
• Re-allocate road space by removing 4 parking spaces on Swanson Road to clear access for vehicles and minimise congestion
• New signs and road markings to support the changes

We have considered installing a roundabout as one of the safety options. However, roundabouts tend to work better when there is even traffic flow at each of its entrance. At this location, the roundabout in the morning would lead to a strong preference for traffic turning right out of North Candia Road and would cause traffic backlog along Swanson Road. In the evenings, vehicles turning out of North Candia Road will have less opportunity to turn.

The planned traffic lights will be adjusted for future demand, as there is future growth in the area. It is our standard practice to review and optimise traffic signals to improve traffic operations once the traffic signals are activated. The lights will also provide a safer turning option for heavy and oversized vehicles, and safer crossing facilities for pedestrians.

Download the detailed drawing here

Benefits to your community

• Safer for Everyone: New traffic lights and traffic light controlled crossings will improve safety for all road users by reducing the chance of crashes and near misses at the intersection.
• Better Traffic Flow: Traffic lights will help manage busy roads, reducing congestion and making it easier for vehicles to move through the area.
• Family-Friendly Design: Widened footpaths, ramps for prams or mobility scooters, and other upgrades will make it easier for families to get around.
• Better for the Community: With schools, parks, and shops nearby, the changes will create safer routes for the community.
• Improved Road Use: Re-allocating road space on Swanson Road will provide clear access at the intersection and reduce queueing. This will allow vehicles to turn more easily and safely.

What happens next

We are looking at installing these changes after 25 July 2025.

Any change to the plan will be updated on this page.

We will be in touch with local residents and businesses prior to any construction taking place.

How to contact us

We welcome you to share your thoughts with us by 21 March 2025, please email us at ATengagement@at.govt.nz