Creating what matters for future generations
WSP Opus has been helping shape Southland for 148 years and our work on the transformational Edendale realignment continues the tradition of creating what matters for future generations.
The massive project will vastly improve the safety and efficiency of a well-used section of SH1 and enhance economic growth through the movement of people and freight.
WSP Opus is providing the consultation and consenting, design services and construction monitoring for this job, which sees the team working closely with the community and project partners.
Balancing project objectives and community needs has a been a crucial element of the work carried out by WSP Opus, to ensure the delivery of a modern highway that benefits both the region and local area.
At present, SH1 traffic travels past residential properties and Edendale Primary School, and directing highway traffic away from the town will reduce traffic noise, vehicle emissions and create a quieter learning and living environment. Realigning SH1 to the northwest of Edendale with a roundabout close to the southern end of the new 2.6km alignment future-proofs the highway, which has been designed to meet the needs of future traffic growth and is resilient to the impact of climate change.
It safely caters for expansion to the Fonterra Edendale Dairy Factory and supports Fonterra’s use of rail as a freight option. The roundabout will make it easy for vehicles from Edendale to access SH1 by reducing delays compared to a ‘give way’ or ‘stop’ controlled intersection.
Shifting highway traffic away from Edendale will increase safety with consistent speed limits. Once completed users will no longer have to negotiate the combination of tight curves, intersections and rail crossings that currently exist on the current section of SH1 through Edendale.
A significant amount of earthworks is required for construction of the realignment. While not unusual for a project of this size, WSP Opus has thoroughly assessed any impact this would have on any areas of historical heritage as well as water and ecology, and created a robust management plan.
The Edendale realignment, along with WSP Opus’ work on other significant projects in the region, such as the Curio Bay Tumu Toka Infrastructure Collaboration, cement our reputation for delivering high-performing, innovative projects.