Intersection option released

The NZ Transport Agency’s preferred option for the new intersection of two state highways south of Levin has been found.

The proposal will shift the meeting point for State Highways 1 and 57 south of Ohau and include overpasses to remove the need for traffic to cross SH1.

Wellington highways manager Rod James said option 5a eased many of the concerns residents had had about the impact of the new roads on private property and the environment.

‘‘ There will still be some impacts on people’s properties, and we are continuing to work with property owners to work through how we can address these.’’

The proposal would ‘‘ significantly improve safety’’, Mr James said. ‘‘ It would remove traffic from Ohau township, reduce conflict at SH1/ Kimberley Rd and replace the Kimberley Rd/ Arapaepae Rd Intersection.

‘‘ This option moves the highway to an alignment south of the Totara Bush Reserve located within the Ohau Vineyards.’’

The preferred option

would

see Kimberley Rd and McLeavey cease to be through roads.

Mr James said the plan included an element of future proofing. ‘‘ Our long- term plan for the Otaki to North of Levin section of the Wellington Northern Corridor is still to create a four- lane road.

‘‘ As such, our proposal for a new highway connection ensures we can

Rd easily turn the new connection a four- lane road in future.’’

The option, along with other proposals for a series of upgrades to SH1 between Otaki and north of Levin were presented at two open days in November.

‘‘ We’ve received very helpful feedback about access arrangements onto the new road.’’

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