The ACT Government reminds Canberrans to “rethink your routine”: London Circuit between Edinburgh Avenue and Constitution Avenue will close at 8pm tomorrow (Friday 2 December) for light rail construction works.
The two cloverleaf ramps from Commonwealth Avenue to Parkes Way and London Circuit will close permanently.
Traffic mitigation measures will maintain traffic flow, transport minister Chris Steel said. This includes traffic lights on Vernon Circle.
Recently installed traffic lights at the Coranderrk Street and Parkes Way roundabout are being tested, and are expected to be operational in the coming weeks. This will allow eastbound traffic to enter the roundabout.
Bus diversions will be in place for several routes, but no bus stops will be missed.
Detours will maintain access to Constitution Avenue, City east and west, and Parkes Way eastbound from Commonwealth Avenue during the works.
- Light rail – London Circuit construction work begins (10 October)
- London Circuit closing – expect years of traffic disruption (22 November)
- Fears for Canberra small businesses during light rail disruption (28 November)
South Canberra motorists can access City West:
• Using Vernon Circle and Northbourne Avenue turning west onto London Circuit.
• Using Vernon Circle to turn onto Edinburgh Avenue.
• Using Parkes Way eastbound and using the exit onto Edinburgh Avenue.
• Using Parkes Way westbound, then using the Lawson Crescent exit to turn right onto Edinburgh Avenue.
South Canberra motorists can access City East:
• Using Vernon Circle and Northbourne Avenue turning east on London Circuit.
• Using Vernon Circle to turn onto Constitution Avenue.
• Using Parkes Way eastbound to turn into either Coranderrk Street or Allara Street to get onto Constitution Avenue.
• Accessing the area via Kings Avenue Bridge, Parkes Way and the Coranderrk Street roundabout.
South Canberra motorists can access Parkes Way eastbound by:
• Using Vernon Circle to turn onto Edinburgh Avenue, then exiting Edinburgh Avenue onto Parkes Way eastbound.
• Using Vernon Circle north, then Constitution Avenue, then Coranderrk Street to join Parkes Way eastbound.
• Exiting Parkes Way westbound from Commonwealth Avenue, then using the Lawson Crescent exit to turn right and head back to Parkes Way eastbound.
• Using Kings Avenue Bridge instead of Commonwealth Avenue Bridge.
While efforts will continue to be made to minimise disruption throughout construction, Mr Steel encouraged Canberrans to ride, walk, or scoot, use public transport, or avoid travel during peak periods where possible.
For more information on upcoming traffic changes, detour routes and alternative travel options, visit BuiltforCBR.act.gov.au/travel-impacts.
“Raising London Circuit is an important step in extending light rail to south Canberra for a better connected, sustainable, and vibrant city,” Mr Steel said.
“Once complete, the project will also create a safer environment for cyclists and pedestrians, and revitalise the southern part of Canberra’s CBD, including the Canberra Theatre Precinct and connections to the Acton Waterfront.
“These major infrastructure improvements are part of our plan to ensure that the Canberra of the next decade and beyond stays one of the world’s most livable cities.
“We are delivering on what we promised at the election.”
