Waimakariri Council Opposes Woodend Bypass Tolling Proposal

Waimakariri District Council has formally opposed the tolling proposal for the upcoming Woodend Bypass, as outlined in a submission signed by Mayor Dan Gordon and the district’s four community board chairs. The council argues that implementing a toll on the bypass, which is part of the planned Belfast to Pegasus Motorway, could lead to increased financial burdens on local ratepayers.

The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) announced last month its intention to impose tolls, proposing two tolling points that would charge $1.25 for light vehicles and $2.50 for heavy vehicles. This could amount to a maximum of $5 for a return trip for light vehicles. Mayor Gordon expressed concern that the council might face additional expenses in making alternative routes through Williams and Smith Streets in Kaiapoi viable, which he considers economically unfeasible.

According to Gordon, the increased maintenance costs on local roads, designed for significantly less traffic, would ultimately impact the financial well-being of the district’s residents. He stated, “Increased maintenance costs on local roads designed to carry significantly less traffic would increase the financial burden on our district’s ratepayers.”

The council has long advocated for the bypass to improve travel times, safety, and connectivity while supporting growth in the region. However, Gordon labeled the tolling proposal as “inequitable,” especially given the lack of “viable, feasible alternative routes” between Lineside Road and Pineacres. He highlighted that the toll plan does not adequately address ongoing safety concerns in Woodend, where increased traffic would likely lead to significant congestion.

Safety issues have already garnered attention from local entities. Schools such as Kaiapoi North School and Te Kura o Tuahiwi have been collaborating with the council to mitigate safety risks near their campuses. The council’s submission also pointed out potential dangers from increased traffic on surrounding roads, including areas like Māori Reserve 873 and Southbrook.

The council emphasized the importance of preserving natural waterways and biological diversity in the design of the bypass. An NZTA spokesperson acknowledged that the impact of the toll on Williams Street in Kaiapoi has been taken into account. They noted that traffic modeling suggested tolling might initially encourage some drivers to use alternative routes; however, it is anticipated that over time, more drivers will opt for the tolled route as its benefits become apparent.

As part of the tolling system, cameras will capture images of vehicles as they pass the tolling points. Motorists will have the option to create a toll account on the NZTA website, and if they do not, the registered vehicle owner will receive an invoice within five days.

The council’s submission highlights the complexities surrounding the proposed toll and the need for further discussions to ensure the interests of the Waimakariri community are adequately represented and addressed.