The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) is set to carry out a series of improvement works on State Highway (SH) 22 between Drury and Paerata in order to enhance motorist safety.

NZTA will execute the works as part of the Supporting Growth Programme, which focuses on developing the transport networks.

As part of the works, the agency will create wide centre lines and flexible median barriers to minimise head-on crashes.

“We have listened to the community feedback we received earlier this year and it has helped us to shape the proposed improvements."

Flexible barriers will also be installed to reduce the impact when vehicles run off the road.

In addition, NZTA will upgrade intersections that include roundabouts or traffic lights, right-turn bays or safer turning areas, and a 2m-wide shoulder will be added in both directions to enhance the safety of cyclists and pedestrians.

NZTA system design manager Brett Gliddon said: “Most of these crashes were caused by drivers losing control and running off the road, or crossing the centreline and hitting an oncoming vehicle.

“We have listened to the community feedback we received earlier this year and it has helped us to shape the proposed improvements. It also highlighted some extra ideas for improvements which we have incorporated, now we’re seeking more feedback to see if we have the plans right.”

Construction is expected to begin next year and will be completed by 2021.