MAJOR construction works on the $6 million Kroemer’s Crossing Roundabout Project, just north of Tanunda, began on Monday.

The project aims to improve safety for all road users and allow greater freight access to surrounding businesses, and has been funded by the Marshall State Government, Morrison Federal Government, The Barossa Council and Pernod Ricard Winemakers.

Transport, infrastructure and local government minister Stephan Knoll said the much-anticipated upgrade would create greater efficiencies for local industries through the improved heavy vehicle access.

A small section of Barossa Valley Way, south of Diagonal Road, is currently restricted to semi-trailers due to safety concerns and insufficient width required for heavy vehicle turn paths.

“The upgrade of Kroemer’s Crossing will enable up to 26-metre B-Double vehicles to access Pernod Ricard’s Richmond Grove Winery on Burings Road,” Mr Knoll said.

Additionally, the busy intersection will be easier and safer to navigate.

“As it stands, there can be driver confusion with the current road alignment due to the close proximity of the multiple junctions,” Minister Knoll said.

Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin said he was excited to see the project taking shape.

“Works starting on this project means it’s a step closer to the benefits that this project will bring to the Barossa region, including increased efficiency, productivity as well as the safety benefits,” he said.

BMD Constructions are the main works contractor and have previously undertaken works in South Australia, including on the Kings and Bolivar Roads intersection, as part of the North-South Corridor, Northern Connector Project and works on the Kangaroo Island Airport Upgrade.

Works are expected to be completed mid-2020, weather permitting.