Motorway opening delay a 'fortunate' reprieve

The Christchurch Northern Corridor opening has been delayed for six months. Photo: Newsline/CCC
The Christchurch Northern Corridor opening has been delayed for six months. Photo: Newsline/CCC
Residents affected by the new Northern Motorway are relieved to hear the Christchurch Northern Corridor opening has been delayed by six months.

The CNC was due to open in the middle of this year, but last week the New Zealand Transport Agency announced more time was needed to complete the $290m motorway.

The original scope of the project has been extended to include a third southbound lane on the Waimakariri River bridge and a clip-on cycleway.

St Albans resident Mark Wilson said the community is “somewhat thankful” for the delay.

"The community will be somewhat thankful for a reprieve of the effects of this motorway for six months, but it’s still there," he said. 

"Until decisions are made to put our community first, then there is no relief.

“I hope the councils and central Government make the most of this fortunate delay.”

Mr Wilson said the local residents hoped a delay in the opening would be a chance for the Christchurch City Council to come up with better traffic demand management options to mitigate the downstream effects of the motorway on the St Albans community.

NZTA portfolio manager Colin MacKay said the CNC Alliance expects to open the motorway in time for Christmas.

“The CNC Alliance expects to open the motorway from the Waimakariri bridge to Cranford St, including Tram Rd and carpool lanes, just before Christmas this year,” he said.

“A number of additions to this project as well as a re-evaluation of ground settlement times mean that we need to allow more time for completion.”

However, upgrades to QE II Drive and Cranford St and the new bridges at Belfast Rd, Radcliffe Rd and Prestons Rd were progressing well, Mr MacKay said.

“These local street upgrades will be completed in time for the motorway opening, which will also be helpful for the communities which have been most affected by the motorway construction,” he said.