New road over Brynderwyns preferred rather than bypass
The NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) has investigated options to replace the slip-prone section of State Highway 1 as part of the three-part Northland Expressway project - expected to be one of the country's most expensive infrastructure projects.
Transport Minister Chris Bishop revealed this morning the route would travel through Warkworth east of State Highway 1, over the Brynderwyn Hills and through to Whangārei.
"The Brynderwyn Hills is a very challenging section due to the steepness of terrain and quality of the geology."
Bishop said NZTA considered alternative options to the west but following reassessment, found a "near east alignment close to SH1".
"This is a more direct route with more predictable geology that can be managed through engineering design."
The slip-prone section of State Highway 1 through the hills has been subject to ongoing closures following severe weather in early 2023.
The highway was closed for around four months as NZTA repaired multiple slips.
Over the Easter weekend, a landslip blocked part of the road as the upper North Island was slammed by heavy rain.
Regional Development Minister Shane Jones said the new expressway would better withstand severe weather and provide a more resilient transport network.
"This transport infrastructure is a key point in the NZ First-National Coalition Agreement.
"The Northland Corridor is a top priority for the Government and we are working quickly to deliver this vital connection to help Northland's economy grow and its communities thrive."
Ministers expect to be able to confirm the preferred route in August or September this year after NZTA complete further investigation and design refinements.
The Northland Regional Transport Committee has welcomed the announcement, calling it a "critical step" in transforming the region's route security and resilience.
Chairperson Joe Carr said the committee was "thrilled" by the news.
"Sorting out issues with the Brynderwyn Hills has been talked about for decades, and our Regional Transport Committee has been working for many years to support progress on a better corridor.
"We don't want to see any more money put into detour routes - we want to see money spent on long-term solutions, so we're really pleased to see the government making real progress."
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