Safety upgrades at frustrating South Brighton pinch-point finally completed

It’s notorious for traffic congestion and safety concerns, but now major works on a South Brighton junction are complete – to the relief of long-suffering residents.

Long-awaited safety upgrades and congestion-busting works on a frustrating pinch point in South Brighton have been completed.

Traffic lights and a signalised pedestrian and cyclist crossing have been installed on

the Brighton Rd and Edwards St junction and are now operational, following years of lobbying from local residents.

The upgrades will help ease congestion and also include a dedicated right-turn lane on Edward St into the Brighton Central Shopping Centre and new bus stop 37 (east) south of the junction.

The $30m works, co-funded by the federal and state governments, have also retained a push button crossing on Brighton Rd after community consultation.

The notorious corner of Brighton Rd and Edwards St, South Brighton, before traffic lights were installed. Picture: Rachel Moore

Federal Transport Minister Catherine King said the upgrades were a “significant step to improving road safety for drivers in Adelaide, especially during peak-hour traffic”.

“The Australian Government is committed to investments like this one in Brighton Rd because we want to make sure that everyone can get where they need to go quickly and safely,” she said.

The works supported about 20 jobs during construction.

Improvements at the junction also included upgraded LED lighting, new kerbing and gutters, resurfaced road pavement and new line-marking.

State Transport Minister Tom Koutsantonis said the junction had been a “source of frustration” for residents.

“With this upgrade, we have delivered improved accessibility, improved safety and decreased congestion – not only across the intersection, but also in the surrounding area,” he said.

“We thank local residents and businesses for their patience while these works were undertaken.”

Federal Boothy MP Louise Miller-Frost said she expected local residents to be relieved the works were completed.

“These major works will provide a much safer experience for those who use the nearby supermarket and fast-food outlet; as well as those coming to and from the beach,” she said.

“I have no doubt this will make an enormous difference to the community.”

State Gibson MP Sarah Andrews said the works would boost safety for residents living on the west side of Brighton Rd to enter the busy thoroughfare, and for pedestrians crossing the road to access the beach.