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Auckland Transport (AT) announced today that the Matakana link road will be built with four lanes from the outset, instead of two proposed earlier.
Mayor Phil Goff says the extra lanes are something the Warkworth community has been asking for.
“AT has developed a plan that will allow all four lanes of the Matakana link road to be built within the existing $62 million budget,” he says.
“Building four lanes from the outset will ensure that the new road can accommodate growth in the Warkworth area, which is expected to see a population increase of 20,000 over the next 30 years.”
Matakana link road is a 1.35km link between State Highway One and Matakana Road.
The route will provide an alternative around the frequently congested Hill Street intersection for traffic heading to and from Leigh, Omaha, Sandspit and Snells Beach.
Rodney councillor Greg Sayers says the news is a win for the local area.
“I am extremely pleased that the four-lane option has finally made it across the line,” he says.
Cr Sayers adds the new road will alleviate pressure on Hill Street when bulldozers move in to permanently upgrade the intersection.
Minister of Transport Phil Twyford acknowledge local list MP Marja Lubeck for her advocacy on the link road.
He says the project will create jobs and help support the local economy, as well as give people real transport choices with a shared path being built alongside the road.
AT’s executive General Manager of Integrated Networks Mark Lambert says AT is looking to have the road built in time for the opening of the new Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway.
“Preparatory works started last week – prior to the main construction works – and involve lizard trapping and relocation, tree felling and service relocations on Matakana Road,” he says.
The project will employ up to 120 staff over the construction period and the work will include provision for safe walking and bike riding. AT is also building a new bridge which will involve the removal of vegetation and some replanting.
Mr Lambert says AT will ensure that any wildlife in the area is relocated safely.
