Roadworks paused

Roadworks at Loop Rd, south of Whanga¯ rei, will pause this month as Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency awaits confirmation of the preferred corridor for the Whanga¯ rei to Port Marsden Highway four-lane upgrade later this year. Construction of the single-lane roundabout, extension of the northbound passing lane and safety improvements to the Portland Rd and Otaika Valley Rd intersections are on track to be completed in coming weeks. Waka Kotahi infrastructure delivery manager Andy Thackwray said additional design time is required prior to constructing the proposed two-lane bridge for the Loop Rd project to ensure the design and location of the bridge can be incorporated into the four-lane upgrade. While the dual-lane roundabout at Loop Rd is a key connection for the four-lane upgrade of State Highway 1, road alignment south of the roundabout is still to be determined.