Work to improve safety around the intersection of Pembroke and Minto Road, Minto will be completed over the coming month.

These upgrades will see the installation of high-friction asphalt, which will improve skid-resistance, a measure that has been tailored in an attempt to reduce the crash rate, with nine reported crashes in a five-year period to 30 June 2023. Six of those crashes occurred in wet weather.

The specialised asphalt uses steel slag aggregates to create greater traction and grip between the vehicles’ tyres and the road.

The new measures around the intersection have also seen an upgrading of signage and realigned stop signs in recent months, which also promote driving at safe speeds when approaching the intersection.

Work to lay the specialised asphalt will take place over two night-shifts between 31 July and 21 August.

While work is being undertaken, there may be reduced speed limits and temporary lane closures. Motorists are asked to follow the direction of traffic controllers.

Transport for NSW is also investigating longer term road geometry options that aim to improve safety at the intersection under the Towards Zero Safer Roads Program.

QUOTE FROM MEMBER FOR MACQUARIE FIELDS, ANOULACK CHANTHIVONG MP:

“This is a well-known traffic crash hotspot and I appreciate the concerns of Minto Road residents. It is thanks to local residents’ ongoing advocacy on this issue that these much-needed safety upgrades are underway.

“With the intersection being on a sharp road bend, drivers can be caught by surprise which has seen vehicles lose control, particularly in wet-conditions.

“Realigning road signs and installing a more skid resistant asphalt is expected to help reduce crashes at this site.

“But we also need the support of motorists in understanding the risks along this stretch of road and exercise caution by travelling at slower speeds.”