MEDIA RELEASE

25 January 2013

NZ Transport Agency – Auckland/Northland Regional Offices

Warkworth Improvements Move Up A Gear Says NZTA

The NZ Transport Agency says it has obtained funding for the next stage of the State Highway 1 improvements in Warkworth - the upgrade of the Hudson Road/State Highway 1 intersection

Work on the upgrade is due to start this autumn once the tender process to find a contractor for the project is completed, says the NZTA’s acting State Highways Manager for Auckland and Northland, Steve Mutton.

“The funding reaffirms the NZTA’s commitment to completing the Warkworth improvements,” says Mr Mutton. “ They are not only part of the much wider programme of works to upgrade transport connections between Auckland and Northland, but locally they will provide safer access to the western side of Warkworth and to the township’s proposed Western Collector Route .”

The improvements at Hudson Road include;-

• The intersection will be widened
• Installation of traffic lights to give safer access to the Warkworth Showgrounds
• Construction of left turn slip lanes
• Improved access for walkers and cyclists

Mr Mutton says the NZTA is working with Auckland’s Council and Auckland Transport to improve the Warkworth’s transport network.

“Warkworth is identified by the Council as one of its future satellite towns, and we are working together to help support the economic development of the community and ease any congestion that growth may bring.”

Mr Mutton says it is important that the Hudson Road improvements are completed before work can start on the nearby Hill Street/SH1 intersection.

“While we work on Hudson Road, we will be investigating what impact the Warkworth section of the Puhoi-to-Wellsford road of national significance could have on our plans for Hill Street. Access from the new highway to Warkworth will mean greater numbers of vehicles coming from the north to go to the eastern beaches. It makes good sense to fully understand these changes to prevent the need to re-do any work planned for Hill Street,” Mr Mutton says.

The Hudson Road improvements could take nine to 10 months once a contract is let. The project follows on from the completion of the Woodcock and Whitaker Roads/SH1 intersection improvements.

The NZ Transport Agency works to create transport solutions for all New Zealanders – from helping new drivers earn their licences, to leading safety campaigns to investing in public transport, state highways and local roads. Follow us on twitter @nzta_news.

Find the latest transport news, information, and advice on our website:
www.nzta.govt.nz

ENDS

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