Plannning progresses for Empire Bay Drive intersection upgrades

Planning is progressing on upgrades to Empire Bay Drive between Daleys Point and Kincumber, to deliver safer and smoother journeys on the Central Coast of New South Wales.

The Australian Government is investing $15 million to get the ball rolling on a corridor upgrade strategy for the intersections servicing Empire Bay and surrounding communities as well as upgrades to the Empire Bay Drive and Wards Hill Road intersection.

“This is a great step forward in improving safety and efficiency for those travelling to, from and around Empire Bay, Daleys Point and Kincumber.

“The Central Coast is a growing area, which is why the Australian Government is investing in the critical infrastructure that will serve the region well into the future.

“The Empire Bay Drive and Wards Hill Road intersection is used by thousands of motorists each day and is an important transport connection to Empire Bay Public School, as well as providing access to Bouddi National Park.

“As we reach another important milestone in planning for this project, we are one step closer to ensuring locals are getting home sooner and safer,” Acting Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Kristy McBain said.

Project map (source: Transport for NSW)

The proposed upgrade will include:

• Converting the intersection to a signalised T-intersection
• Separate left and right turn lanes out of Wards Hill Road onto Empire Bay Drive
• New active transport connections, including signalised crossings, footpaths and kerb ramps
• Improved accessibility to public transport facilities
• Minimising the work footprint to reduce impact to the existing utilities and environment
• New fencing to improve pedestrian safety
• New line marking

These improvements, once completed, will help reduce the risk of crashes while improving traffic flow and vehicle access to and from Empire Bay Drive.

“Intersections are an integral part of our state’s road network, and this upgrade at Empire Bay Drive and Wards Hill Road will mean a safer daily trip to Coasties.

“It is part of a broader look at the corridor, with Transport for NSW investigating how to improve safety and access for anyone travelling between Daleys Point and Kincumber.

“With the beach on its doorstep and the city closer by, the Central Coast is only becoming a more attractive place to put down roots – for families, young people and retirees alike. Best-in-class infrastructure, like this upgrade, is how we ensure this area continues to be one of the best places to live,” NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said.

Transport for NSW is undertaking detailed studies along the corridor to identify priority intersections and upgrade locations, with results to inform planning. Transport will also investigate opportunities to improve safety, pedestrian, cyclist and vehicle access, traffic flow and network efficiency.

Community members and key stakeholders will continue to be consulted as the project progresses.

“The Minns Labor Government knows how much of a difference upgrades like this make to the daily life of Coasties.

“It doesn’t always take a major project – sometimes it’s the smaller improvements across the network that truly make the road safer for daily travel as our region continues to grow,” NSW Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said.

“The Australian Government is investing in the planning needed to improve safety and traffic flow across our local road network.

“This intersection strategy will include the important Wards Hill Road and Empire Bay Drive intersection, ensuring future upgrades are informed by proper planning and community need.

“For local residents, this is about making daily travel safer, more reliable and better prepared for future growth.

“I will continue working to ensure the Central Coast receives the infrastructure investment our community deserves,” Federal Member for Robertson Dr Gordon Reid said.

Source: Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories; NSW Government – Media Releases; Transport for NSW (1, 2)