Real estate agent wants better roads for North Canterbury
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
North Canterbury's growing housing market needs greater infrastructure support, a real estate manager says.
Bayleys Rangiora and Hanmer Springs manager Ross Ditmer said the Woodend Bypass, the proposed Rangiora Eastern Link Rd and the Skew Bridge upgrade (west Kaiapoi) are vital to the region’s prosperity.
‘‘We’ve got Rangiora opening up, with the Bellgrove subdivision underway, but we need that road treatment.
‘‘It is chicken and egg stuff. We’ve got to future proof it otherwise it is going to become a nightmare.
‘‘The Woodend Bypass is huge, and for Amberley it will make it easier and more attractive to commute to Christchurch for work.’’
The Government has promised to build the Woodend Bypass, which would divert highway traffic away from the Canterbury township.
Stats NZ's high growth scenario suggested Waimakariri could grow from 70,000 to 100,000 over the next 30 years, with the bulk of the growth expected in Rangiora and Kaiapoi.
The proposed Waimakariri District Plan, which is expected to take effect later this year, is set to open up 200 hectares of land for housing in Rangiora and 97ha in Kaiapoi.
Waimakariri Mayor Dan Gordon said the Eastern Link Rd and Skew Bridge upgrade will be included in the 2024-34 long-term plan.
The Eastern Link Road has been designated in the Waimakariri District Plan and the council has applied to Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) to share the $37.9 million bill.
‘‘We will be giving ratepayers the choice if they want us to get on and fund it without NZTA funding, or whether we should wait,’’ Gordon said.
Without NZTA funding, the full amount would be loan funded and cost ratepayers $30.67 per property per year, over approximately 30 years, compared to $15.03 with the subsidy.
The Skew Bridge upgrade is estimated to cost $11 million price tag and would cost ratepayers about $10 per year without NZTA funding, Gordon said.
‘‘The bridge is at the end of its life and it will make a huge difference to our community when it is upgraded and it will help address congestion.’’
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
-
60% Yes, supporting people is important!
-
25.7% No, individuals should take responsibility
-
14.3% ... It is complicated
Poll: Do you have a go-to adverse-weather checklist for your family? ☔⚠️
As reported in the Press, the same low-pressure system that lashed the North Island over the weekend is now making its way south, bringing heavy rain and strong winds with it. It’s a soggy start to the week for many of us.
With more wild weather on the cards, we’re curious: do you have a go-to adverse-weather checklist for your family? Or are you more of a “grab the torches and hope for the best” household?
-
44.4% Yes - we like to be prepared
-
38.9% Nah
-
16.7% This is on my to-do list!
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Loading…
