Otaki MP Supports Consultation on Third Option
Otaki MP Nathan Guy is pleased that public feedback has resulted in a four-lane Western Link Road being added into the options for SH1 through the Kapiti Coast.
Mr Guy said he was delighted that Transport Minister Steven Joyce fronted up to the Kapiti meetings that he organised and listened to their concerns. As a result Mr Joyce had asked the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) to consult on the third option.
“I’ve attended about 20 stakeholder meetings on NZTA’s proposal to put an expressway through the region, and had solid feedback at public information days at Otaki, Waikanae and Paraparaumu.
“It’s fair to say there is a range of feelings, preferences and concerns on where SH1 should go. What has become evident though is the significant number wanting a four-lane link road to be part of the mix.
“There’re clearly some major benefits to putting SH1 down the designated link road path, but there are also some considerations that the community needs to weigh up before making its final preference known.
Mr Guy said he appreciated that it was a difficult time for people whose properties may be affected by the various options.
“Most people recognise something needs to be done and that’s why the Transport Minister is focused on announcing the preferred alignment of the whole Road of National Significance from Wellington Airport to Levin by the end of the year.
"There is a lot of discussion and debate still to be had over the next few weeks. I urge people to fully explore the new option and decide what they think will be the best long term solution for our local communities and the wider Wellington region," said Mr Guy.