Warkworth residents frustrated with new motorway

Residents in the Puhoi to Warkworth area have spoken out about motorway construction work disrupting locals’ everyday lives.

Many locals are complaining about the endless noise, speeding vehicles, traffic and waste.

James Johnson, resident on Moir Hill Road, has many complaints.

“There is constant noise seven days a week, from six in the morning until late evening. Construction vehicles are constantly speeding and on the wrong side of the road causing many near misses,” he says.

“I think when the project is completed there will be less crashes along the motorway due to the significant change in vehicle numbers,” says Mr Johnson.

New Zealand Transport Agency worker Darryl Walker says although the construction of the motorway has its downsides, the outcome will be worth it in the end.

“Several fatal crashes have occurred between Puhoi and Warkworth in recent years, a separated motorway with a central median barrier will greatly improve safety,” says Mr Walker.

Warkworth resident Cherie has spoken out about the impact the new motorway will have on the community.

“Currently Warkworth has huge issues with traffic, so with the completion of the motorway, roads won’t be as busy, which will make everything a lot safer,” says Ms Stevenson.

There has been numerous crashes on SH1 between Puhoi and Warkworth, and with the new motorway, locals are hoping crashes will significantly decrease.

According to NZTA there are on average 20,000 vehicles a day travelling on SH1, and in ten years’ time with the new motorway there will be more than 31,000 vehicles a day.

The motorway is set to be completed at the end of 2021.