A scheduled four-week closure of the Papakura northbound off-ramp on State Highway 1 from today has been postponed.
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency originally said motorists could "expect delays" in morning and afternoon peak hours while drivers adapted to the closure and the detours available.
But in an update on the day work was set to begin, the NZTA said the project was "delayed to allow extra time to work through and manage the likely impacts on the local network".
"Revised dates will be advised in due course," a spokesperson said.
A signposted detour was set to be in place on Great South Rd and Beach Rd showing the route between the Drury interchange northbound off-ramp and the Papakura interchange.
Motorway messaging would also have signposted the option for motorists to continue northbound on SH1 to Takanini interchange and detour back south to Papakura via either Great South Road or SH1 southbound between Takanini and Papakura interchanges.
Waka Kotahi NZTA regional manager of transport services Stephen Collett earlier said the off-ramp closure was essential to allow crews to rebuild the Papakura northbound off-ramp.
"Testing has shown the ramp needs underlying pavement strengthening, followed by tying into the motorway widening works underway.
"While this off-ramp closure will no doubt impact travel, this is an important part of the interchange improvements which will improve safety and resilience.
"I’d like to thank motorists in advance for their patience and understanding as we complete these important works," said Collett.
The work was part of the first stage of work on the SH1 Papakura to Drury project, part of the Government’s $8.7 billion investment through the New Zealand Upgrade Programme.
The SH1 Papakura to Drury project:
- An additional lane in each direction and wide shoulders to future-proof for public transport services between Papakura and Drury
- Interchange improvements at Papakura (including a new southbound on-ramp) and Drury (enabling rail electrification between Papakura and Pukekohe, future-proofing for additional rail lines, and improved safety and access along Great South Road through the interchange)
- 4km of shared walking and cycling pathways alongside the northbound side of SH1 between Papakura and Drury interchanges (extending the Southern Path between Takanini and Papakura interchanges opened in May 2021)
- Improved local road connections and access along and across the motorway
- Improved safety features and environmental outcomes.
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