Wait and see over opening
Porirua’s mayor is pleased but locals are sceptical over confirmation that Transmission Gully will open by the end of March.
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency has formally directed the lead contractor Wellington Gateway Partnership to open the long awaited road within two weeks.
There is still, however, no actual opening date.
Mayor Anita Baker says confirmation that Transmission Gully will open at the end of this month is great news for Porirua and the region as a whole.
‘‘This has been a very long time coming, so I’m happy to have this confirmed. We’ve been frustrated in recent times with crashes and road closures highlighting the lack of resilience on the main route in and out of Wellington – so this is a very welcome milestone.’’
Transmission Gully has the potential to improve regional connectivity, relieve congestion and bring economic benefits to Porirua, she says.
‘‘So we’re breathing a sigh of relief and look forward to seeing the rubber hit the road at the end of this month.’’
Baker notes that while there are still some matters outstanding, the road will be safe to use.
‘‘Most importantly it’s a safer and more resilient route than the one we’re currently using. I know everyone will be really excited to get a chance to check out Transmission Gully and see the results of what has been a massive feat of engineering.’’
Commenting on social media, however, locals like Mary Palfreyman remain doubtful.
‘‘I will only believe it, when I see it.’’
Barbara Stones had a similar view. ‘‘I’ll wait and see if it actually happens’’
Other comments included:
■ Rosser Taylor. ‘‘Doesn’t actually say March 2022, so they probably mean March 2023.’’
■ Mark Adams: ‘‘They still haven’t set an actual date.’’
■ Ashley Gibson: ‘‘I see...the year wasn’t stated...so leaves some wriggle room.’’
■ Heather Browne: ‘‘Fingers crossed.’’
■ Sarah Muir: ‘‘Waka Kotahi has told Wellington Gateway Partnership we expect the road to be opened as soon as possible and that responsibility now sits with them. Doesn’t sound done and dusted to me.’’
■ Bart Blithe: ‘‘Since the road won’t actually be fully finished what’s the speed limit going to be?’’
■ Rob Arlow: ‘‘Bit too early for an April Fool’s joke.’’
■ Rob Rangi: ‘‘I hope it does or else this will be the best/worse April Fool’s joke ever!’’
‘‘We’re breathing a sigh of relief and look forward to seeing the rubber hit the road at the end of this month.’’
Porirua mayor Anita Baker