Q: Please, please can something be done about the link from the Northwestern Motorway to the Southern? The queues are ever-longer, and the frustration is at danger level. Mary Andrews, Titirangi.
A: Your prayers have been answered. Over the weekend, Transit workers put new lane layouts in
place. Motorists coming on to the Northwestern before Western Springs should use the left lane for Newton Rd and the Northern Motorway. The next lane will give access to Nelson St. The third lane is for the Southern Motorway and a fourth lane, which starts just before the Bond St Bridge, is for port traffic.
New signs will indicate which lane goes where, and electronic message boards will supply advance warning.
Q: Could the motorists who live in Kentigern Close and Steeple Rise have a clearway on Pakuranga Highway so that they can merge safely on the far left? It has become dangerous with such a short distance to the lights. The drivers coming down the highway in the left lane think you are pushing in and therefore try to block you out. Shona Wadams, Pakuranga.
A: The Manukau City Council will take a look at this, but it is tricky, given the proximity of the Pakuranga Rd/Ti Rakau Drive intersection. Bear in mind that a "Keep Clear" can create a false sense of security, especially when traffic queued in one lane hides a free-flowing lane.
Q: On Bradbury Rd by the Botany Rd roundabout there is a bus stop and a few metres along, a pedestrian crossing, manned usually by a school patrol. Between the bus stop and the crossing is a 60km/h sign. Even 50km/h is too fast here. C. Wright, Howick.
A: Signs must be provided showing the speed limit on the road being approached, usually 50m to 100m from the intersection. And motorists are required to drive at a speed appropriate to the conditions. Nonetheless, the Manukau City Council will look at relocating the sign.
