Bristol Road traffic light works set to resume after lengthy delay

WORK on one of Torquay’s most significant intersection upgrades is finally set to resume following a series of unavoidable underground delays.

The installation of traffic lights at the corner of Bristol Road and the Surf Coast Highway will restart on Monday 25 May.

The project was previously brought to a standstill after unlisted NBN services were discovered during initial construction, requiring a complete relocation of telecommunications infrastructure before the shire could safely proceed.

The next stage of works will begin with a total closure of Bristol Road at the highway intersection for about three weeks.

During this time, all traffic – including buses and large delivery vehicles – will be detoured via Boston Road and Payne Street.

To accommodate larger vehicles on the detour route, temporary “no standing” signs will be installed along the south side of Boston Road.

Once complete, the upgraded intersection will provide signalised pedestrian crossings and allow drivers to safely turn right from Bristol Road onto the highway.

The scope of the remaining work includes installing footings and signals, laying conduit and asphalting the southbound lanes of the Surf Coast Highway.

Surf Coast Shire general manager of placemaking and environment, Chris Pike, acknowledged the project has not gone to plan.

“We know this project hasn’t gone to plan and has taken a lot longer than we all anticipated, so thanks for bearing with us while we finish the job,” he said.

While Bristol Road is expected to reopen after the initial three-week intensive period, works will continue under general traffic management through to late 2026.

“We understand these works will impact local traffic and businesses, and we have planned detours and temporary changes to keep people moving safely,” Pike said.

“We are asking delivery drivers to use Boston Road during this period, where temporary changes have been made to accommodate larger vehicles.”

Southbound access on the Surf Coast Highway will remain open throughout the project, though motorists should expect single-lane closures and are advised to allow extra travel time.

The traffic lights are expected to be fully operational by the end of the year.