Tunnel confidence

Having read ‘‘Growing crack threatens cycling future of 125 year old tunnel’’ (Nelson Mail, August 19 ), I would like to assure readers that the Nelson Tasman Cycle Trail Trust is not concerned with the future safety or survival of the Spooners Tunnel.

The trust is working closely with Tasman District Council on the development of the trail from Wakefield through to Tapawera and the Motueka River Valley. The current closure and planned repair is a safety and conservation precaution.

As some of your readers have noted, the tunnel has survived for more than 125 years through two major earthquakes. Engineering surveys were carried out before it was decided to put the cycle trail through the tunnel and the council’s engineers and heritage experts are now working to identify the most cost-effective solution to ensure the tunnel’s long-term use. Our counter on this section of the trail has recorded around 150 people cycling or walking through the tunnel on weekend days since it opened. We are confident it will be open again soon and for the foreseeable future, providing a great outing for locals and visitors to our region.

We welcome the views of readers. Letters to the editor should be no more than 200 words. All correspondence is at the discretion of the editor, who reserves the right to decline, edit or abridge letters without explanation. Please send your letter to: The Editor, The Nelson Mail, 15 Bridge St, Nelson or fax on 03 546 2802 or email to mailbox@nelsonmail.co.nz. Please include your full first name and last name, address and phone number.