A proposal to change the layout of the stretch of State Highway 1, running through Waikanae, has been updated following discussions with key community players.

The Transport Agency, the Kāpiti Coast District Council, the Waikanae Community Board, and the Friends of Waikanae, have been working together to update a proposal that will see the highway become a local road.

“The refreshed proposal includes investigation into keeping the free turns in and out of Te Moana Road, widening the road to improve safety and make parking easier, and improvements to the proposed traffic lights and pedestrian crossings at the Ngaio Road intersection,” says Group Manager Infrastructure Services, Sean Mallon.

“We’ve also put on hold plans to include a cycle lane in the new layout, while we consult with the local cycling community about an alternative route running though Marae Lane.”

Mr Mallon says the changes were sparked by a submission from the Friends of Waikanae made during the Council and the Transport Agency’s recent consultation on the proposed new layout. Waikanae Ward Councillor, Michael Scott, and Community Board Chair, Jocelyn Prvanov, also called for further discussion with the community.

“This is a great result for Waikanae, and while not all recommendations could be accommodated, I’m pleased with the way the Council and Transport Agency worked with the Friends and the Community Board to make it happen,” says Councillor Scott.

Mrs Prvanov said, “This will be an important piece of road for connecting Waikanae in the future, so it’s important it reflects the community’s needs.”

Work to upgrade the road north of Waikanae is expected to begin in 2019.

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