Conservators / Guys / Savills Road DDRSA

Objective

Conduct a detailed design stage safety audit of the intersection

Client

e2 Environmental for Harewood Gravels Company

Location

Yaldhurst, Canterbury

Deliverable

Report

Timeframe

May 2026

Project Status

Complete

Background

ViaStrada was commissioned by e2 Environmental Ltd to undertake a detailed design stage Safe System Audit of intersection improvements at Conservators Road, Guys Road, and Savills Road near Christchurch, prompted by the establishment of a new gravel quarry at 21 Conservators Road. The audit assessed proposed road widening, markings, and signage changes against Waka Kotahi NZTA's Safe System Audit Guidelines, with a particular focus on the safety implications of significantly increased heavy vehicle movements through a rural intersection.

The audit identified three safety concerns, all at minor or comment level, reflecting a relatively straightforward design with low existing crash history. Key findings included visibility considerations arising from roadside vegetation and the potential for large trucks to obstruct sightlines for drivers exiting Savills Road, along with a broader observation about the growing need for non-motorised user infrastructure in the area as commercial development continues to increase heavy vehicle traffic on these rural roads.