We worked closely with the Tararua, Ashhurst and Palmerston North communities to ensure local voices were heard on this project.
We held community information sessions to keep the community updated on where the project is at, and ensured locals had the opportunity to apply for jobs on the highway.
Ashhurst
When the State Highway 3 Manawatū Gorge route closed, a lot more traffic travelled through Ashhurst. Traffic mitigation measures were implemented in Ashhurst, to improve safety and help reduce noise in the town until the new highway was opened.
Woodville
The Woodville community and businesses were particularly impacted by the closure of the gorge route. Work is carried out to maintain the access roads around the Saddle Road, and we realigned Woodlands Road to route traffic to and from the Saddle Road via Woodville to ensure the town remained a viable stop-over destination for through traffic.
Community Liaison Group
A Community Liaison Group met regularly with the project team and included members of the Tararua, Woodville and Ashhurst communities, as well as representatives from affected sectors and local councils.
