A major upgrade programme has been confirmed for two of Rolleston’s busiest routes, with work planned on Hoskyns Road and Jones Road to improve safety and support growing industrial and township access.

Selwyn District Council has confirmed its capital works and transport teams have been working together to deliver the projects under a single construction programme, aimed at reducing disruption and improving efficiency.

Hoskyns Road will be widened, with safety improvements planned for five intersections along the route.

The work will also include upgraded stormwater infrastructure and new intersection street lighting.

Hoskyns Road is a key connector in Selwyn, linking Jones Road, State Highway 1 and Rolleston Drive.

It also provides access to the Rolleston Izone Business Hub, home to 70 businesses, and IPort, a $500 million business park and major industrial site for the South Island.

As a key freight route, the widening is expected to improve safety for heavy vehicles and commuters travelling between Rolleston’s industrial and residential areas.

Early drainage works began in December, with the main construction programme running from 6 January to 13 May.

Temporary road closures will be in place at times to allow the work to be completed more efficiently.

Work on Jones Road is scheduled to begin in mid February, focusing on strengthening and resurfacing the road between Hoskyns Road and Weedons Ross Road.

Jones Road is a main access route to Rolleston’s industrial area, particularly IPort, and the upgrades are expected to improve safety for heavy vehicle movements.

Traffic management details for the Jones Road work are expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks.

Both projects are being completed ahead of planned flyover construction over State Highway 1, which will connect Rolleston Drive North to Jones Road. During that construction, Jones Road will serve as a key detour route.

Selwyn District Council Executive Director Infrastructure and Property Tim Mason said the work was about planning ahead.

“Our teams and contractors are working together to maximise the upgrades we can get done by minimising disruption and getting the best value for money for our rate payers,” Mason said. “These upgrades will make it easier to get around and support our economy.”