16 March 2018

Consultation process has led to the best decision

The AA believes NZTA has made a good decision choosing Option 3, and pursuing a business case for the new Regional Freight Ring Road and a second bridge across the Manawatu River, to replace the Manawatu Gorge road.

“This decision will enable NZTA and the Councils to collaborate and develop an integrated network,” says Manawatu AA District Chairman Garry Goodman.

“It’s a good outcome that justifies the additional time NZTA decided to take late last year to consider the options.

“The AA is now satisfied that they have properly looked at the economic impacts of all the different options.

“A wider network outlook is needed for freight and private motorists. We need an efficient inter-regional route and good access into Palmerston North. This is why we’re pleased they have confirmed that the Regional Ring Road and a second bridge across the Manawatu River are also part of the big picture,” says Mr Goodman.

The AA appreciated being invited to participate in the Joint Working Group which considered the short-listed options.

“We’re aware that for the public and freight operators, waiting until 2024 for this new road to open is a long time. But we also think that a good process is being followed to reach the right decision and all our regions will be better off in the long-run.”

The AA believes that new SH3 section will meet the features it identified as essential for the new road, being:

· Gradients that suit trucks without impeding other vehicles

· Efficiency in terms of travel time

· Greatly enhanced safety

· Resilience that matches modern expectations of State Highways.

The AA represents 394,000 AA Members in the combined districts of Manawatu, Wanganui, Wairarapa, Hawkes Bay, Taranaki and Wellington.

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