Night works will begin on Sunday to install traffic signals at the intersection of Main South, Riccarton and Yaldhurst Roads in Christchurch.

The four-week project involves signalising the intersection to reduce the risk of crashes involving right-turning vehicles. Left and right turns from Main South Road into Riccarton and Yaldhurst Roads will remain.

Additional changes include marked cycle lanes, a signalised pedestrian and cycle crossing, a short bus lane on Riccarton Road, and speed humps on all approaches to the intersection.

During construction, Main South Road will be closed eastbound in the evenings for traffic coming from State Highway 73. Westbound traffic from Riccarton Road will not be able to access Yaldhurst Road. Detours will be in place.

Daytime impacts will be limited, with a reduced speed limit and some visible traffic management. Businesses near the intersection will remain open.

Christchurch City Council said the intersection ranks in the top 3% in the city for crash risk, with 76 crashes recorded over a 10-year period involving right turns from Main South Road. These included three serious and seven minor injuries.

The Council approved the work in December 2024 after the decision was delegated by the Waipuna Halswell-Hornby-Riccarton Community Board.