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Roadworks linked to Northern Beaches Hospital will delay peak hour journeys

In case you thought the worst of traffic delays linked to the Northern Beaches Hospital roadworks was over, think again. Now thousands of motorists are set to endure more daily peak hour pain. Find out how you could be affected.

A recent aerial view of the intersection of Warringah Rd and Forest Way (top) at Frenchs Forest. Picture: RMS
A recent aerial view of the intersection of Warringah Rd and Forest Way (top) at Frenchs Forest. Picture: RMS

TENS of thousands of motorists will endure more daily peak hour pain due to roadworks near the Northern Beaches Hospital.

Authorities are warning of heavy rush hour traffic when the intersection of Warringah Rd and Forest Way at Frenchs Forest is reconfigured to allow work on a 1.3km road underpass.

From Saturday night a permanent set of traffic lights will be turned on for motorists heading west towards Chatswood and the city along Warringah Rd.

The merge lane for those turning right out of Forest Way will also be removed.

A Roads and Maritime Services map showing changes to the intersection of Warringah Rd and Forest Way at Frenchs Forest.
A Roads and Maritime Services map showing changes to the intersection of Warringah Rd and Forest Way at Frenchs Forest.

Roads and Maritime Services said the changes were significant for motorists who are used to continuing through the intersection.

“Heavy traffic and delays are expected in the area after the changes are implemented, especially in peak times,” a spokesman said.

“Motorists are advised to plan ahead, allow extra travel time and avoid driving in the morning and afternoon peaks where possible.

“Motorists are advised to drive carefully and be ready to stop on approach to the Forest Way intersection.”

A RMS traffic counter, near Daines Pde at Beacon Hill, showed that more than 26,000 cars a day used Warringah Rd westbound in 2018.

Traffic lights at the intersection of Warringah Rd and Forest Way will lead to some delays for peak hour traffic heading west towards Chatswood.
Traffic lights at the intersection of Warringah Rd and Forest Way will lead to some delays for peak hour traffic heading west towards Chatswood.

The underpass, which is expected to be completed before the end of the year to take through traffic past the hospital entrances, is part of the $500 million road improvement project linked to the new hospital

The RMS has said when the project is complete, local traffic and heavy vehicles will be able to enjoy a faster journey to and from Chatswood and the city from Dee Why, Brookvale, Seaforth and other parts of the northern beaches.

“Work is now being carried out on the 1.3 kilometre long underpass on Warringah Rd which includes building three new road bridges at the intersections of Forest Way, Hilmer St and Wakehurst Pkwy,” the spokesman said.

“To allow for the next stage of work on the new road bridge at Forest Way, the intersection will be reconfigured.

An artist’s impression of the completed upgrade to the Warringah Rd/Forest Way intersection showing the underpass now under construction. Source: RMS
An artist’s impression of the completed upgrade to the Warringah Rd/Forest Way intersection showing the underpass now under construction. Source: RMS

The changes will be implemented between 7pm Saturday and 8am Sunday, weather permitting.

“Work will be carried out to move barriers and traffic lights as well as carry out line marking,” the spokesman said.

“NSW Police will be onsite to control traffic while the traffic lights are being turned on.

“Motorists are reminded to follow the direction of NSW Police, traffic control and all signs while work is being carried out.

Inside the bedrooms at Northern Beaches Hospital

“The community and motorists are thanked for their continued patience and will continue to be kept updated.”

Work will continue to be carried out during standard construction hours, weather permitting.

For the latest traffic updates call 132 701, visit livetraffic.com or download the Live Traffic NSW App.

To keep up to date with the project, visit the Northern Beaches Hospital road upgrade project page at www.rms.nsw.gov.au/projects/sydney-north/northern-beaches-hospital/index.html

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Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/manly-daily/roadworks-linked-to-northern-beaches-hospital-will-delay-peak-hour-journeys/news-story/bb9db7d7add78d134482cacc0bd6ead7