Flores and Eastward Roads Roundabout Project

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is a roundabout being built at this intersection?

In 2023, the intersection at the corner of Flores Road and Eastward Road underwent an assessment and due to the high number of vehicles accidents recorded in the previous five years the intersection was deemed unsafe. Therefore, the decision was made to reconfigure the intersection to a roundabout to improve driver, cyclist and pedestrian safety.

How many accidents have occurred at the intersection?

In the five years prior to the audit 13 serious vehicle accidents were reported, some involving severe injuries and major property damage. Due to the high number of vehicles crashes the Flores/Eastward Road intersection was declared a Black Spot.

What is the Black Spot?

A Black Spot is an intersection or stretch of road where serious crashes have occurred or are at risk of occurring.

Why not install traffic lights instead of building a roundabout?

Roundabouts are installed by local governments primarily for better safety (reducing severe crashes by eliminating T-bones), improved traffic fl ow (continuous movement, less idling and congestion), and lower long-term costs (no electricity/signal maintenance). Main Roads WA actively prefers roundabouts as they are more efficient and safer, and will only consider approving traffic lights if land or services prevent the construction of a roundabout.

When will the works begin?

The works are scheduled to begin after the April school holidays. Once a start date has been confirmed the community will be notified. As the project is currently out for tender, it is still too early to determine how long the works will take to complete.

Will there be any road or intersections closures during the works?

The City aims to avoid closing streets or intersections during road works wherever possible. However, any potential closures during the roundabout’s construction will depend on the contractor’s chosen construction approach and traffic management plan, with safety for workers and the community being the top priority. As the project is currently out for tender, it is still too early to know whether any closures will be necessary.

What will the project cost and how is it being funded?

The estimated construction cost of the new roundabout is approximately $5 million. The project is joint funded with the State Government contributing $2,851,713 from the Black Spot program and the City contributing the remainder. The Black Spot Program funds safety upgrades such as roundabouts, traffic signals and street lighting to help improve driver, cyclist and pedestrian safety.

Why is the intersection being relocated?
A traffic impact study and traffic modelling undertaken during the design process concluded a three-leg roundabout at the existing intersection would result in unacceptable levels of vehicle queues lengths due to proposed development in the area and the City’s predicted population growth. Therefore, a four-leg roundabout which includes Alexander Street was designed. The alternative location will meet the short and long term safety requirements and capacity needs of the City.

How many trees will need to be removed as part of the project?
To allow for the construction of the roundabout and ensure clear driver sight lines, which are critical to road safety are achieved, 23 trees will need to be removed. However, the project also involves significant landscaping of the area which includes the planting of 60 trees.