Route options considered and why they have been ruled out
There are various challenges with these options:
Bridge route
The original preferred route for the New Zealand Transport Agency - Waka Kotahi section to connect to Frankton was proposed go under State Highway 6 via an underpass through additional private property and on to a new crossing over the Kawarau River near Boyd Road.
Geotechnical investigations near the proposed bridge crossing have shown this route isn’t feasible because of poor ground conditions. This means the cost estimate for the preferred bridge design is significantly higher than expected. We have looked at alternative routes to avoid the geotechnically challenging river crossing.
Park Ridge route
We’re still working with Park Ridge to provide the most suitable route through their development. We’ll keep you updated when we know more.
SH6 route adjacent to Remarkables Station National Trust (QEII Trust) land
This route, between Woolshed Road and Boyd Road, is longer and less direct. This made it more expensive to build and the route had to cross the main access into Park Ridge which is a safety concern. Access to a number of developments along this route are better served by the current preferred option.
Stream route
Investigations and flood modelling show the Stream route would be unsuitable due to potential flooding. Farming operations could be severely impacted along this proposed route so the Remarkables Station National Trust provided us with an alternative option through their land.
Riverside route
This route meant SH6 would need to be crossed twice and included two underpasses. This option was significantly more expensive to build, is longer and less direct for users.
We continue to work on land acquisition plans for the Remarkables Station National Trust section of the trail and further development of the design.
We’ll update you as more information comes to hand.
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