The proposed 16-kilometre, four-lane expressway has sparked strong opposition from some community members, though it has support from others.

Expressway opponent Save Kapiti says in its submission that it opposes the application, lodged by the NZ Transport Agency, in full and will have legal representation at the Environmental Protection Authority hearing.

More than 4000 people signed a petition calling for the Government to rescind its decision to build the motorway through the towns of Raumati, Paraparaumu and Waikanae.

Save Kapiti says the “sheer scale and permanence of the proposed motorway, which will physically bisect the three residential communities of the district”, would have significant adverse social and economic effects.

“While we acknowledge the proposed motorway could benefit some local road users, particularly long-distance commuters, a significant majority of local motorists will receive an equal or greater benefit from an urban arterial route constructed on the same route as that proposed for the motorway.”

Car dealer Guy Weaver, who heads a business group in support of the expressway, says in his submission that it will take all the 100kmh traffic off local roads, making them safer for residents.

“Emergency services need faster access in our district . . . Kapiti needs more employment. With improved access to Wellington and to the north, we will become a more attractive place for business to establish itself.”

Once processed, the submissions will be posted on the authority’s website.

“There is a lot of interest and we are processing them as quickly as possible,” a spokeswoman said.

There is a proposed hearing start date of November 12. The board of inquiry will make a final decision by April 12.

Source: stuff.co.nz, 20 August 2012

“NZTA has confirmed the alignment of the Otaki to Peka Peka expressway and made changes as a result of public feedback.

“There is strong public support for a local road to link Te Horo Beach Road and School Road to the north, with a bridge over the expressway and railway.

“Easy access interchanges in and out of the Otaki township will provide good access for both locals and shoppers. This will help maintain Otaki as a popular retail destination.

“The existing SH1 will become a local road north of Mary Crest, and a possible pathway for walkers and cyclists could run alongside the expressway. It could offer great opportunities for visitors to stop and buy locally grown produce.

“A bridge on Rahui Road will go over the expressway and railway, helping easily connect Otaki. This is in response to concerns raised by the local community.

“There is good progress on the MacKays to Peka Peka section as well. NZTA are aiming to lodge their application with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) in March, and continued geotechnical investigations are happening this month.

“The terrible accidents around Otaihanga over recent months have highlighted the need for a decent expressway with separate lanes. This will mean safer journeys and the existing SH1 can become a local road.

“It’s also good to see NZTA keeping the public informed with updated and more accurate costings on these projects.

“I’m pleased to see strong support for the upgrade of our roads, and that NZTA have listened closely to local feedback and are getting on with the job,” says Mr Guy.

Source: Nathan Guy MP for Otaki website

Source: OpenStreetMap.org