A5 (Sirocco)
| A5 (North East Passage) | |
|---|---|
| |
| Length | 210m |
| Termini | |
| North |  A1 Ballmore
|
| South | A1 Vista Cliffs
|
| Major junctions | |
| Ackland District |  PH17 Vista Cliffs
|
| Location | |
| Primary destinations | Ballmore, Rockport |
The A5 (also known as both the North East Passage and the North Western Passage) is a highway in the Siroccan roading network. It is located entirely within the territorial authority of Ackland District in Sirocco's National Capital District province and links the towns of Rockport and Vista Cliffs with the town of Ballmore. The highway is identified on signage and maps with the standard green and orange box with A5 in orange type.
The A5 is a completely single carriageway highway for its 210m length. From its northern terminus at the A1 at Ballmore to its southern terminus at Vista Cliffs it is entirely a dirt road.
Route
The A5 begins at Ballmore Crest, a few metres south of Ballmore where it heads westward into dense forest. The road soon becomes very narrow as it descends through hilly, windy terrain as it turns to the south towards Vista Cliffs. At Vista Cliffs it meets Provincial Highway 17 at Reserve Road. Here it turns left and continues eastward towards Vista Cliffs, where it meets the A1 at Vista Cliffs.
History
The North East Passage was first discovered in 2005 as an alternative route from Ballmore to Vista Cliffs after the beginnings of a track were spotted at Ballmore Crest. After the exploration of the track was completed it was officially given the name of the "North East Passage", given its location in New Zealand. Over time however the name changed to "North Western Passage", which was officially gazetted on Government road maps beginning in 2011. It was not until April 16, 2012, that it was realised that this name was incorrect and the correct name replaced.
A Roadways SR inspection of the highway on February 6, 2012, noted the road to be in poor condition.
Macronationally, the Passage is notable for providing access (albeit restricted) to the ruins and fruit trees of an old homestead in the area.