Whakatāne District Council is pleased to advise that from tomorrow (Friday, 10 November) traffic will flow around the new Landing Road roundabout, but not yet into Hinemoa Street.

The site has been under construction since early September while major upgrades are carried out on the roundabout road surface and underlying structural pavement, and underground water services. Safety and layout improvements are also being implemented in the area.

Whakatāne District Council Manager Transport Ann-Elise Reynolds says the opening of the new roundabout layout marks a significant milestone.

“To date, the project has progressed smoothly which we’re rapt with,” she says. “The site is a hive of activity as we draw nearer to the finish line and while the bow is not completely tied on the project with additional work to be completed in the coming weeks, opening the roundabout for use is a really exciting step for us – and we’re ahead of schedule.”

Work on the layout switchover will occur overnight tonight (Thursday, 9 November) with the roundabout operational from first thing Friday morning. 

“The section of Hinemoa Street between Victoria Avenue and the roundabout will remain closed with access to residents only until December 15, however Landing Road extension will re-open tomorrow.” 

Construction of refuge islands and crossing points will occur during the next few weeks, with the new slip lane off Whakatāne Bridge into Landing Road opening mid-December.

The public are advised to expect minor layout changes in the near future associated with these developments. Landscaping and some additional off-road works will be completed in the New Year.  

“We encourage everyone to approach the Landing Road neighbourhood with caution as we all adjust to the new road layout,” says Ann-Elise. “Not only will this layout take a bit of getting used to, but there are some areas where the surface is temporarily uneven, and we urge motorists to slow down and be aware of their surroundings.”  

The temporary road layout changes to Victoria Avenue, James Street, Hawera Street and Nelson Street will remain in place until mid-December. 

For more information, including a list of Frequently Asked Questions see www.whakatane.govt.nz/landingroad

Click here to view our video update.

 

Image caption: The new Landing Road roundabout will open to traffic from this Friday, with finishing works to occur prior to December 15.