5 May 2021
Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Roadworks on State Highway at Ngongotaha
Enquiry
Ahead of the implementation of the Western Road detour at the SH5/SH36 on 10 May, I am writing an update on the project.
I would like to put the following questions to Stavros Michael, and if possible, would appreciate it if I could get an answer before 2pm today.
- How was attendance at the public information meetings council held with NZTA?
- Was the council satisfied with the level of community engagement around the project?
- What feedback did council receive from the community around the development?
- How does the SH5/SH36 development fit into the council's Bay of Plenty Regional Council's Public Transport Review,
Rotorua Economic Development's Destination Management Plan and Council's 2021-2031 Long-term Plan?
Response
FromStavros Michael, Infrastructure General Manager at Rotorua Lakes Council:
Re questions 1 and 2:
Waka Kotahi and Rotorua Lakes Council have collaborated on a wide range of engagement activities to keep the Rotorua community informed on upcoming, current, and future key projects.
Recent public information sessions held in Rotorua were well received and the two in Ngongotahā, in particular, were well attended.
Council will continue to work closely with Waka Kotahi to ensure the community is kept up to date about key projects.
Re question 3:
Please refer to Waka Kotahi re all feedback related to the SH5/SH36 roundabout development.
Feedback conveyed to Council mainly related to potential effects on the village and commuters during construction of the Ngongotaha roundabout improvements, and wanting to ensure the project would align with future proposed safety improvements in the Ngongotahā Village.
Re question 4:
Upgrades to key roading corridors will help to meet growth demand and enable much-needed housing development – which is a key focus of the proposed 2021-31 Long-term Plan – as well as helping to reduce congestion and improve safety for all road users.
Public transport is a significant component of traffic and infrastructure planning.