Weir-lock-bridge proposal lower Hatea river Whangarei
Studies and consultation on harbour crossing under way.
Media Release - (27 November 2009)
Whangarei District Council is expected to consider at its December meeting the feasibility of the weir-lock-bridge proposal for the second crossing of the lower Hatea River.
Council voted in September to proceed with the crossing at Port Road and to progress the design and cost estimate of the weir and lock to feasibility stage.
The Port Road site was the only one where a weir and lock could be constructed on the river.
Council Environment Group Manager Paul Dell has begun the crossing’s consultation process, which is looking at the consenting requirements for the initial bridge project, as further engineering assessment has indicated that the bridge and weir can be built as separate projects.
As part of the initial investigation into the weir-lock project, Council has commissioned a detailed engineering assessment of it to identify the full cost implications and design constraints.
A separate economic benefit analysis is also being undertaken to determine the true economic benefit of the weir-lock proposal to the wider community.
"Both the above aspects are seen as being critical to early decision-making for this project. If Council then determines to proceed, detailed environmental investigations would then be required," Mr Dell said.
The initial weir-lock-bridge proposal would have required the bridge to be opened for any boating movement, whereas the current bridge design has a minimum 7.4m clearance above high tide. This will allow the majority of launches, rowers, waka ama, etc, to easily navigate beneath the bridge without it having to open.
Mr Dell said there had been strong feedback through consultation with boat owners on the need to maintain unrestricted access at most tides.
Council Group Manager Infrastructure and Services Simon Weston said consultants Downer EDI Works are examining the cost of a bridge, the cost of a bridge with lock, and the cost of future-proofing a bridge so a lock and weir could be constructed at a later date.
Mr Weston said he would be preparing a report on the options and costings for the crossing to go before Council’s December meeting.