Larger, more visible road signs have been installed at 14 intersections in McLaren Vale as part of an election commitment to improve road safety.

The South Australian Government is working with the City of Onkaparinga to address ongoing concerns about collisions and close calls in the area.

This involves installing larger signs with yellow backing boards, which are more noticeable to drivers, as well as corner treatments, guideposts and line marking.

Combined, these safety measures aim to help drivers notice that they are approaching an intersection and encourage them to slow down and be more alert to their surroundings.

Overall, 21 intersections in McLaren Vale have been identified as having a higher potential for crashes, with a range of solutions to be implemented.

Other treatments under consideration include rural junction active warning systems, a compact roundabout and teardrop-shaped islands to make drivers more aware that they need to either stop or give way.

Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Tom Koutsantonis says the McLaren Vale wine region relies on high levels of tourism, attracting many drivers who may be distracted or unfamiliar with the area. 

“A prevalence of four-way junctions can prove particularly hazardous for drivers, and in 2021 two crashes tragically resulted in the deaths of two community members.

“The application of innovative treatments will result in significant and cost-effective improvements to road safety in the area, warning drivers that they are approaching an intersection and that care is needed to avoid any further tragedies.

“This project is an opportunity for South Australia to showcase innovative treatments, such as the rural junction active warning signage, and our dedication to improving road safety across the state.”

City of Onkaparinga Mayor Moira Were says it’s great to see the first 14 of the 21 McLaren Vale intersection road safety upgrades coming to completion, which will help to ensure everyone gets home safely.

“We’re grateful for the State Government’s $4.2 million commitment to this project, and for the community’s ongoing feedback on the upgrades. 

“This project is an excellent example of collaboration between state and local governments. Both DIT and the City of Onkaparinga have individual and shared responsibility for roads in the area, with DIT responsible for roads such as Main and Aldinga Roads, while council is responsible for adjoining or local roads such as Chalk Hill and Olivers Road.”

The use of these alternative, innovative treatments in McLaren Vale will pave the way for their use at other rural intersections across the state where there is a history of vehicles overshooting or failing to give way.

A map of the intersections and information about the proposed treatments are available online.