Road users in Canterbury are being told to prepare for temporary traffic changes on State Highway 1 as investigations begin for the upcoming Belfast to Pegasus Motorway and Woodend Bypass project.

The New Zealand Transport Agency will examine the road surface starting this Friday, to ensure a smooth connection with the new motorway.

This work focuses on SH1 between SH71 Lineside Road and Williams Street, including the Pegasus roundabout and the SH1/Williams Street intersection.

Traffic management will include lane shifts during the day and detours at night to keep everyone safe. Drivers are urged to follow on-site signage and plan for minor delays.

At the Pegasus roundabout, work starts on October 3 and lasts about five days. It will happen during off-peak hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with lane shifts to maintain traffic flow.

Further south on SH1 near Ohoka Road, investigations are set for October 8 and 9 in the southbound lane. This daytime work, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., will close one southbound lane, so drivers should expect some slowing.

Night works begin on October 13 between Lineside Road and Williams Street, running from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. Lanes will close one direction at a time, northbound for about three nights, then southbound for four, with detours via Smith Street and Williams Street.

 NZTA encourages road users to stay updated and drive carefully to support this important preparation for the new motorway and bypass.