Road renewal works on the main western entrance to Whakatāne District are nearing completion, and Thornton Road will open to all motorists from this Sunday morning (10 November) - over a month ahead of schedule.
Team Leader Capital Projects Dave Wathall says the implementation of a full (residents-only) road closure, combined with favourable weather conditions, has allowed Whakatāne District Council to accelerate the project and complete it earlier than expected.
“The early completion of this work is a positive outcome for our communities and visitors to the area, and a good example of how road closures, along with good weather, can positively impact project timeframes.”
Final road surface testing work has been completed and the road will be sealed tomorrow, following which the section of Thornton Road between West Bank Road and Greig Road will re-open.
The public are advised there will be temporary a speed limit in place of 70km/h until line marking is completed early next week.
Detours will continue to be in place via the state highway network until Thornton Road re-opens.
Meanwhile, initial preparation works on the second phase of the project saw West Bank Road (between Thornton Road and Greig Road) close on Monday following a karakia ceremony. The road has since temporarily re-opened, with major construction works to begin this Monday (11 November), under a road closure that will remain in place until 13 December, weather permitting. The public is reminded there will be no left turn from Greig Road onto West Bank Road during this time.
“We understand that road closures can cause inconvenience and disruption to daily routines, however, the long-term benefits of this entire project will outweigh the temporary disruption and we appreciate everyone’s patience and co-operation as we work to make our local road network safer.”
For more information, including a list of Frequently Asked Questions, please see www.whakatane.govt.nz/thorntonwestbankrenewal
