Council welcomes release of details

Kāpiti Coast District Council has welcomed the release of the Mackays to Peka Peka Expressway details.

“Until now our residents have been living in an information vacuum, not knowing whether they will be directly affected or not, so I’m pleased the proposed details have now been released,” said Mayor Jenny Rowan.

Council joined the Alliance in September on the basis that it was better to be inside ‘the tent’, arguing on behalf of residents, than outside. “It was a difficult and critical decision for the former Council to take,” said Ms Rowan, “and it only did so when the Alliance was prepared to accept our terms of entry.” The terms were based on 11 objectives which were well publicised at the time.

“I am pleased to say that we have had a good working relationship with Alliance members over the last several months and found them receptive to our objectives and recommendations. For instance, we now have the promise of a second road access across the Waikanae River which residents have been seeking for a number of years.

“Originally NZTA were also talking about only one interchange at Otaihanga. Now, as a result of our involvement, two interchanges are proposed in more sensible locations increasing opportunities for local connections.
 
“Clearly the preferred route released today (November 27) will generate a mixed reaction and further questions. Council, for instance, will want more clarity over a number of issues. These issues include the impact on existing roads, mitigation measures, stormwater management, the conversion of the existing SH1 to a local arterial road, and the management of future growth pressures arising from the expressway.

“We are especially keen that residents who will be directly affected are treated sensitively and expeditiously. Given this, we are pleased NZTA has agreed to a Council request to provide extra social service support to these residents beyond those normally associated with just land purchase.”

Ms Rowan urged residents to take an active part in the consultation period. “This is your chance to have a say and make a contribution on what is being put forward.  Tell NZTA about the things you like and don’t like. This is your opportunity.”

Council would monitor what was being said during the consultation period and take those views into account when it prepared its submission on behalf of the District in the New Year.

The Paraparaumu/Raumati and Waikanae Community Boards were also planning to run workshops to establish the views of their communities and prepare submissions on their behalf.

Otaki and the Paekakariki Community Boards could well follow a similar process, said Ms Rowan.