FAQs
How much will the bridge cost and how is it being funded?
The new bridge is expected to cost around $6m. The majority of the cost will be subsidised by New Zealand Transport Authority Waka Kotahi (NZTA). Council will also present an issues paper to seek funding for the remaining amount.
How was the location of the new bridge decided?
Council explored four different options and consulted with the No. 4 Road community. The chosen option was based on feedback and factors such as cost, design and minimising disruption.
Was there an alternative option suggested by the community?
Yes, some residents suggested a fifth option - building the new bridge in the same location as the Bailey bridge and temporarily moving the Bailey bridge upstream. However, this would have been a more costly and disruptive option.
Were local iwi consulted about the project?
A site meeting was held with a representative from Waitaha and Tapuika iwi, who recommended building the new bridge as close as possible to the original loactopm to protect the ecosystem and avoid disturbing a pā in the area.
What will happen to the Bailey bridge once the new bridge is open?
Once the new bridge is constructed and opened to traffic, the Bailey bridge will be dismantled by NZTA’s contractors and stored for future use.