National Funds $800m Christchurch Motorway Extension
Global Newsflix 1 min read
National has promised to fully fund an $800 million extension to the Christchurch Northern Motorway, if it leads the next government. The project aims to alleviate traffic congestion and improve safety in the area. Construction is expected to begin next year if National wins the election.
Key facts
- National promises to fully fund $800 million Christchurch Northern Motorway extension
- Construction expected to begin next year if National wins the election
- Project aims to alleviate traffic congestion and improve safety in the area
Three perspectives
Neutral
The announcement comes after National also promised to start construction on south Auckland's Mill Road. The project has been dogged by controversy for nearly two decades. The funding for the Christchurch motorway extension will be allocated in next year's budget.
Positive
The project is expected to save motorists up to 10 minutes at peak times and reduce traffic through Woodend from 21,500 vehicles a day to 8,000. It will also reduce deaths and serious injuries by 78 percent. The new motorway and bypass will make the corridor more reliable for people and freight.
Negative
The project has faced criticism in the past, and some have raised concerns about the impact on local communities. The funding for the project will be allocated in next year's budget, which may be subject to change. The project's timeline and budget may be affected by various factors.