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Unforeseen problems mean that Ahuroa Road will remain closed to through traffic for longer than expected, with Auckland Transport (AT) saying it now probably won’t open before the end of April at the earliest.
The long-term works needed to stabilise eight under-slips caused by the summer floods and cyclones were set to be finished by February, but contractors were forced to down tools last month due to new geotechnical issues.
An AT spokesperson said although considerable progress had been made in stabilising slopes, the road was proving difficult to repair.
“Unfortunately, the underlying rock layer is substantially deeper than thought, which has required a review of design options and a temporary hold on work,” they said last month.
AT said it was looking at six new design options to find the most appropriate way of fixing the issue.
In the meantime, contractor Downer has started preliminary work that includes construction and piling operations, which AT warned could mean extra noise and traffic for residents.
“There will be an increase of heavy vehicle movement on Ahuroa Road as our construction teams carry materials in/out of site,” they said. “From time to time, there may be an increase in noise and vibration from plant machinery as work such as drilling and excavation is carried out.”
AT said it remained committed to the successful completion of the job, but could not say exactly how long that would take.
“We are unable to provide an indicative timeline until a design is confirmed,” the spokesperson said.
“There are many variables that determine how quickly we can complete work, including weather conditions and availability of construction materials. We will continue to keep the community informed with up-to-date information.”
AT was also planning to hold a local meeting last week to discuss access to Ahuroa School around the work site early next year, as the road is unlikely to be open during of Term 1.
The works are taking place along a section from the junction with J Tolhopf Road west to approximately 909 Ahuroa Road.
Updates on the works can be found online at https://at.govt.nz/projects-roadworks/road-works-disruptions/long-term-road-repairs-from-auckland-storms/updates-on-repairs/north-rural-community-road-repair-updates
