Prep work on two new roundabouts in Hastings begins

Preparatory work has begun on the new roundabout at the Ōmahu Rd/Henderson Rd intersection. Photo / Supplied

In a bid to reduce traffic congestion and delays near Ōmahu and Irongate, Hastings is getting two new roundabouts.

Preparatory work began last week for the roundabouts at Ōmahu and Henderson Rd and Maraekakaho Rd, with projects expected to run until the end of May.

District development sub-committee chairwoman Tania Kerr said providing suitable roading was a part of attracting industry to the district, and a priority in the council's Long Term Plan.

"This activity stimulates the economy and creates jobs, and the expansion in these areas also requires efficient, effective and safe roading infrastructure to support it."

In Ōmahu the council is working with businesses in the area to maintain access to them.

Drift-In Lunch Bar, Newport Auto Electrical & Air Conditioning, Tumu Frame & Truss, Norwood and Beard's Environmental will all remain open and people can still enter their buildings.

However, Newport Auto Electrical & Air Conditioning will have a different entry point at times over during the works. Signs will be in place to direct customers to alternative access.

The other roundabout on Maraekakaho Rd is designed to improve safety for vehicles accessing Irongate Rd.

The roundabouts are part of a raft of transport projects, including extending cycle paths and trails.

This week work also started to build a new trail at Waimarama Rd. All work will take place off-road so there will be no traffic disruptions.

On Napier Rd, cycle lanes are being built between Havelock North and Te Ara Kahikatea, and are expected to be finished in March.

This will include an off-road shared concrete path on the eastern side between Thompson Rd and Romanes Dr that will form a loop.

"These are exciting projects that will improve safety and accessibility, and create more opportunities for people to walk and cycle," Kerr said.

Meanwhile, work continues on other road and footpath safety projects including the SH51/Waipatu upgrade, building a shared pathway on School Rd, Clive, and ongoing bridge strengthening projects, as well as maintenance of the rural road network, including ongoing resealing work.