4 May 2001

Kaiapoi Crossing to get barrier arms - MP

Clayton Cosgrove, Member of Parliament for Waimakariri met with the Managing Director of TranzRail, Michael Beard this week, to discuss the Williams Street Rail Crossing.

Mr Cosgrove had written to Mr Beard earlier this year regarding the provision of barrier arms at the crossing, due to a large number of concerned constituents approaching him who had noticed the considerable increase in traffic as a result of the new shopping development.

“Mr Beard has been to the site and we had a very positive meeting, during which he told me that TranzRail are in a position to immediately put in place remedial measures which will include moving the crossing poles and installing new reflective lights. These remedial measures have roading implications, so TranzRail are now waiting for the Waimakariri District Council to get back to them regarding these requirements,” Mr Cosgrove said.

Mr Beard gave Mr Cosgrove an undertaking that Kaiapoi would get barrier arms at the crossing “sooner rather than later”, and that he would send a letter confirming this and other details for making the crossing safer as soon as possible.

“Currently TranzRail are working on a time frame for installation of these safety measures. This is a very positive move for Waimakariri, and I am thrilled that after such a long time, the Kaiapoi Crossing will be made safer for local people. I am very pleased with TranzRail’s commitment regarding this issue and look forward to receiving Mr Beard’s letter confirming this,”

“Mr Beard is obviously very concerned about the safety of this intersection, which is why he has personally visited the site,” Mr Cosgrove said.

Mr Beard also reiterated his commitment that TranzRail will be installing barrier arms Boys Road and Fernside Road later this year.

Once Mr Cosgrove receives written communication from Mr Beard regarding the timing of the installation of these safety measures, he will be reporting back to the community.

“Mr Beard has told me Kaiapoi will get the barrier arms “sooner rather than later” and I will continue to work with TranzRail to ensure that it is sooner.” Mr Cosgrove said.

ENDS

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