FAQs

How has the Tranport Agency developed these plans for the road?

In 2013, a scoping study of the route was carried out by ViaStrada Ltd for the Transport Agency.  This study examined the options for the SH1 / SH62 intersection in Spring Creek to address an existing high crash rate.  Various data sources were analysed for this assessment, including traffic growth, turning movement data, and rail schedules.  Five main options for a modified intersection were developed and compared using a multi-criteria analysis.  The roundabout option was confirmed by the Transport Agency as the option to be further investigated.

Early in 2014, Via Strada Ltd completed a scheme assessment study [PDF, 7.6 MB] confirming the best option to progress to the design and construction phase that will reduce the potential of fatal and serious injuries at the intersection while maintaining a suitable level of service for traffic on the National Strategic State Highway.  In February 2014, the Transport Agency held a public meeting inviting the community to meet local engineers to hear about the outcome and recommendations from this study.

We worked with affected landowners, local businesses and key stakeholders as a priority when developing the design for construction. Among other things, these conversations helped us to understand the size and style of roundabout, how this could impact on local businesses and how it would operate with a railway line close by.

We also held a Public Information Day in October 2014, which enabled the local community and public to ask questions and provide feedback into the final design.

What has been happening on the site?

Construction began in October 2016 with identification and shifting of services such as water, fibre, electricity, and sewer lines in-ground, and power lines and street lighting above ground. 

Work in these areas coincided with the unexpected discovery of two underground fuel storage tanks, which required specialist skills and equipment to decommission and remove.

The removal of contaminated land and completion of the relocation of services allowed roundabout construction to start in June and this is largely complete.

How much is the cost of the improvements project?

The estimated total project cost is approximately $4.3 million to improve the intersection.

Will the Transport Agency be looking to make changes to other sections of SH1 or SH62?

The Transport Agency is always looking to help better connect people to the things they do every day both locally and across New Zealand.  We will continue to review the needs of road users along SH1 and SH62, particularly if the volume of traffic increases and there are issues that need to be addressed.

When will construction start?

Construction began in October 2016.

How long will construction take?

The original construction programme allowed for work to take approximately 6 months. However, due to the complexity of the ground conditions onsite, and the unusually wet summer and autumn seasons, we’re expecting construction to be complete in the last quarter of 2017.

How can I contact the project team?

If you would like additional information, please contact the project team by: