Introduction

The statutory functions of the National Capital Authority (NCA) comprehensively establish the Australian Government’s continuing interest in the strategic planning, promotion, development and enhancement of Canberra as the National Capital. As part of these functions, the NCA is responsible for traffic management and maintenance of roads located on National Land. The NCA’s ongoing monitoring activities have identified that the intersection of Anzac Parade and Constitution Avenue requires work to replace dilapidated road infrastructure and improve intersection performance. Construction is scheduled to commence in late 2010 and will occur in stages over 2011. This document has been produced to inform the community about the planned changes.

Background

Anzac Parade and Constitution Avenue intersection is located at the junction of the suburbs of Reid, Campbell and Parkes. The intersection is a key component of the Canberra road network. Anzac Parade provides one of the few connections with Parkes Way, Canberra’s primary east-west transport corridor. Both Anzac Parade and Constitution Avenue are National Land and both are managed by the NCA.

The roadway reconstruction is the first major restoration of Anzac Parade since it was constructed in the 1960s. Changes to the operation and configuration of the intersection are an important step in meeting the increasing traffic demands of a growing city.

Figure 2: Location of Anzac Parade and Constitution Avenue intersection

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Heritage and Landscape

Anzac Parade is the national capital’s major ceremonial avenue. The Parade is listed on both the National Heritage List (Anzac Parade and Memorial) and the Commonwealth Heritage List (Parliament House Vista). The formal landscape character of Anzac Parade is centred around a red gravel median, punctuated by Hebe planter beds. The purpose-designed street lighting is set at regular intervals and the space is framed by well-established rows of Eucalypts.

Constitution Avenue forms the base of the Griffins’ National Triangle, balanced by Commonwealth Avenue and Kings Avenue. The formal tree plantings along Constitution Avenue were largely established in the 1960s, although some remnants of earlier plantings remain.

Current Design

The current configuration of the intersection is described as a ‘box turn’ arrangement and is effectively two separate intersections in close proximity. Currently, vehicles travelling along Anzac Parade turning into Constitution Avenue must stop at a second set of traffic signals in the median before completing their manoeuvre.

Design of Intersection Works

The location of the Anzac Parade and Constitution Avenue intersection presents a complex range of issues not typically associated with road design. The retention of the unique landscape structure and heritage values of Anzac Parade have been central to the NCA’s development of the design. The long term design character and function of Constitution Avenue as a main avenue has also been taken into account. This ensures that the works are compatible with long term planning and infrastructure, described in the National Capital Plan.

A range of options were considered in the development of the design. Design options were analysed according to their respective impacts on traffic, road geometry, landscape character, urban design and heritage. In preparing and assessing the design options, the NCA consulted with the ACT Government, the Commonwealth Department of Environment, Heritage, Water and the Arts, road user groups and other key stakeholders.

Future Design The NCA has selected a design solution that best matches the existing character of the intersection. The design achieves the required improvements to intersection performance without adversely affecting the landscape or heritage values of Anzac Parade. The long term infrastructure requirements of Constitution Avenue are accommodated, while optimising the retention of existing trees. Overall, the design will benefit the community through improved traffic arrangements and quality of public space.

Constitution Avenue

The existing design of Constitution Avenue is typically one lane in each direction, with up to four rows of established trees. Constitution Avenue will be widened at the approach to the intersection to accommodate additional turning movement. These changes will be consistent with the long term development of Constitution Avenue. The concept design shown below illustrates how this project relates to the long term development of Constitution Avenue.

Two lanes are shown travelling in each direction (which could support dedicated Transit Lanes), with on-street parking along key frontages. An off-street cycle lane is shown to cater to the needs of commuter and recreational cyclists.

Scope of Works

The works will cover an area of Anzac Parade and Constitution Avenue in each direction and include some line marking on Parkes Way. The works will include:

• removal of up to nine Quercus Robur (English Oak) trees on the southern side of Constitution Avenue;
• reconstruction of the road carriageway, kerbs, paths and medians;
• changes to traffic control devices (such as line marking, traffic signals and signage);
• associated landscaping works; and
• relocation of engineering services infrastructure.

Timeframe

Construction will be conducted in stages to minimise inconvenience to road users and avoid impact on the ceremonial uses of Anzac Parade. Works are scheduled to begin late 2010 and will continue in stages over 2011. The final timing and extent of works remains subject to detailed design and approvals. Further information will be published by the NCA closer to the commencement of construction works. 

Public Information Session

A public information session was held on Thursday 22 July 2010.

Contact Details

To request further information, obtain the information in alternative formats or make a submission on the intersection works, please contact:

Mr Anton Veld
National Capital Plan
Phone (02) 6271 2888
Email anzac.constitution@natcap.gov.au

Postal address
National Capital Authority
GPO Box 373
CANBERRA ACT 2601

Street address
Treasury Building
King Edward Terrace
PARKES ACT 2600

Download

• Click here to download the Anzac Parade and Constitution Avenue Intersection Works Booklet in PDF Format - 5.50Mb