Temporary road markings at the Blackwood roundabout confuse motorists

Motorists have spent the past week confused by temporary arrows which directed them to drive the wrong way on what has been voted the state’s most dangerous intersection.

The temporary arrows at the Blackwood roundabout that have been confusing motorists.

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Adelaide Hills residents have spent the past week confused by temporary arrows painted on the road as part of the $3.5 million Blackwood roundabout upgrade.

The arrows appeared to be directing motorists the wrong way around the roundabout — voted the state’s most dangerous intersection before the upgrade began.

A post on the Blackwood Community Buzz Facebook page was abuzz with discussion about what the Transport Department was thinking when it sent out workmen to paint the lines on the road.

So we asked the department what was on its mind.

“The direction of the arrows were developed during consultation with stakeholders, and taking into consideration the geometry of the road,” a spokesperson said in a written response.

“The photographs shown are of the temporary line marking while the works were under construction and DPTI did not receive any complaints from motorists.”

Amazingly, between alerting the Transport Department to the confusion over the arrows and its response, the markings were changed.

“DPTI appreciates it may take time for motorists to adapt, and appreciates their patience and understanding,” the spokesperson said.

Announced in July 2018, the $3.5 million upgrade includes construction of a new, larger roundabout, road resurfacing, new line marking, landscaping, lighting upgrades and the relocation of the Blackwood war memorial soldier.

Most of the works are planned to be completed in late April, 2019.