Government pulls funding for transport projects
The brakes have been put on two Far North transport projects after the coalition Government announced no further central government Transport Choices funding is available.
The brakes have been put on two Far North transport projects after the coalition Government announced no further central government Transport Choices funding is available.
Minister of Transport Simeon Brown advised the Far North District Council of its decision this week, meaning the proposed Kerikeri Active Mode Network Connections and Far North Bus Services projects cannot be constructed as planned next year.
The Kerikeri Active Mode Network Connections involved:
- proposed traffic calming measures on Hone Heke Road and a new roundabout with zebra crossings at its intersection with Cobham Road
- protected cycle lanes on Kerikeri Road between Hone Heke Road and the Stone Store
- connections and signage and traffic calming measures on a number of Kerikeri streets.
The Far North Buses Service project planned to formalise existing bus stops, signs, marking and assembly points.
“While this is obviously disappointing for those members of the community who showed their support and engagement with the projects through the consultation process, including Kerikeri High School students, the council will now need to consider options for the future of these projects,” says Kahika Moko Tepania.