Construction on Combine St and Azalea Ave roundabout to begin soon

A notorious Coffs Harbour intersection, the site of numerous crashes, will get a complete makeover with the introduction of a brand new roundabout.

The intersection of Combine St and Azalea Ave, Coffs Harbour has been the scene of numerous accidents. Including this one which involved four vehicles in 2016.

Preliminary work on the long awaited roundabout at the intersection of Combine St and Azalea Avenue is to begin on Wednesday.

The project has been officially on the cards since March 2020, when the Federal Government announced it would put $200,000 towards construction of the roundabout through its Black Spot Program.

The preliminary work will involve the closure of the intersection to all vehicles besides buses and emergency vehicles on Wednesday June 23, with detours in place.

Then from the end of July construction will start, forcing the closure of the intersection for about eight weeks.

A roundabout is to be constructed at the the intersection of Combine Street and Azalea Avenue. The federal government contributed $200,000 to the project from its black spot program. Photo: Tim Jarrett

Transport for NSW data has recorded seven reported vehicle crashes at the intersection since 2014, including three casualties and two serious injuries.

In 2016 the intersection was the scene of a particularly nasty crash involving four vehicles.

A spokesperson for Coffs Harbour City Council said engineering design will ensure ability for heavy vehicles, including semi-trailers and buses, to use the roundabout safely.

A roundabout is to be constructed at the the intersection of Combine Street and Azalea Avenue. The federal government contributed $200,000 to the project from its black spot program. Photo: Tim Jarrett

“A roundabout is recognised as the best traffic solution to improve safety at the intersection,” the spokesperson said.

“Pedestrian safety will also be improved with the installation of a new pedestrian refuge on Azalea Avenue, to be located north of the roundabout.

“Council appreciates the co-operation and patience of residents and motorists during the works.”