2 February 2011

The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has started investigating two possible state highway corridor options for Woodend to cope with expected traffic growth in the area over the next two decades.

NZTA Canterbury State Highways Manager Colin Knaggs says future traffic projections for the next 10-20 years show the amount of traffic travelling through Woodend will reach levels that the current two-lane state highway will struggle to handle. The two options that are on the table were decided on following earlier feasibility studies and extensive consultation by the Agency.

One option is to widen the existing highway to four lanes and the other is a short eastern bypass that would run between Woodend and Pegasus. The investigation will work out the best possible way to complete each option and then identify the best route of the two Mr Knaggs said.

Colin Knaggs says consultation on both options is planned for the first half of this year. As part of this process open days will be held along with other opportunities for the public to have their say. Whatever corridor is chosen, will increase the highways traffic capacity and efficiency, as well as improving road safety, accessibility and liveability for Woodend residents.

The preferred route will be confirmed through designation, giving the Woodend community the certainty needed to plan and develop for the future.

MWH New Zealand Ltd has been appointed to carrying out this investigation work and associated public consultation on behalf of the NZTA.

Further information is available at http://www.nzta.govt.nz/woodend-corridor/

ENDS

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