The New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi has agreed to stump up a large chunk of the $234 million needed to repair Marlborough Sounds roads and future proof the area.
It comes after a storm in July 2021 devastated many roads in the region and before they could be fully repaired a second storm hit in August 2022 causing even more widespread damage.
Marlborough District Council announced today the NZTA board has agreed to fund 71% of the road repairs, which is currently estimated to cost $146 million. It will also fund half of the $48 million required for future road resilience work.
Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor said it was really good news for the region.
“This is a big step forward - the people of Marlborough will be relieved to hear the Government is supporting our business case and funding a significant proportion of the repairs and improvements.”
The council now has to figure out how to fund the outstanding amount, including the $40 million for marine adaptations to allow the region to be more resilient in the future.
Taylor says the council will look at who pays what through the Long Term Plan process next year. "As I’ve always said, this is something our whole community - all of Marlborough - will have to consider.”
“This includes the proposed marine infrastructure improvements which are also part of the Long Term Plan funded by Council. Further discussions will be held with the Government on future marine resilience funding prospects.”
It's expected that road repairs will get underway in mid-2024 once the council has gone through it's processes and design work has been completed.
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