Geraldine opposition to highway changes
A reporting citing ‘‘very strong’’ opposition to a proposed highway realignment through Geraldine has called for the Timaru District Council to reconsider the project.
The public were asked for feedback on the realignment of State Highway 79 through Talbot and Kennedy streets as part of consultation on a Geraldine transport strategy.
Of 65 submissions received, 49 were opposed to the proposal which would change Geraldine’s main traffic route.
Abley Consultants said in a report to tomorrow’s Geraldine Community Board meeting that the reasons given by those opposing the proposal were ‘‘valid and robust.’’
‘‘It is recommended that TDC reconsider the need for realigning SH79 through Talbot St and Kennedy St and investigate alternative options for addressing the identified issues’’.
Among objectors’ concerns were:
■ Increased vehicles numbers along south Talbot St and potential congestion could create problems for the ambulance and fire services which exited on Talbot St;
■ NZ Historic Place-listed buildings on the corner of Kennedy and Talbot streets limited options for widening the road;
■ A new subdivision in Majors Rd off Kennedy St with 33 sections for sale would increase traffic in the area.
A feasibility report on the realignment was first released in 2004 but was only taken up three years ago.
Other feedback suggested heavy traffic should be diverted from Geraldine with a suggested heavy traffic bypass encompassing Orari Back Rd, Coach Rd and Tiplady Rd.
Many people also wanted more parking made available in the town centre with suggestions that Kennedy Park or empty land adjacent to the RSA building could be made available.
Another suggestion was removing roadside vegetation in Talbot St for parking.
Abley recommended a comprehensive parking study be made.
‘‘This will provide better understanding of the level of overall parking occupancy as well as the difference between short and long term parking.’’
Most people, a total of 26, favoured a speed reduction in the town centre, with three stating the existing speed limit was adequate while 29 submitters wanted improved cycling infrastructure, and 10 were happy with the status quo.
‘‘Suggestions to connect to retirement homes and extend cycle routes into rural areas should be considered by council,’’ Abley said in their report.
All feedback supported installing two lanes on the Upper Orari bridge which played an important role when the Rangitata River flooded in December 2019, cutting off State Highway 1 and diverting traffic over the Upper Orari bridge.
Timaru District Council group manager infrastructure Andrew Dixon recommended that the community board agree to a workshop being held between the council, community board and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency to consider the public feedback and to make amendments if necessary.