10 October, 2024
Council has received a funding decision from the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) regarding funding requests for bridge repairs including replacement of the eight bridges lost during Cyclone Gabrielle.
Tim Barry, Director of Community Lifelines, announced that two of the lost bridges have been indicatively endorsed for replacement, two require further economic and design considerations, and three will not be replaced.
The eighth bridge is the Hollywood Bridge on Bushy Knoll Road which has already been replaced with a Bailey Bridge and is currently being reinforced to provide a 50+ year life.
“NZTA has a thorough process to determine funding eligibility for bridge projects, and unfortunately some bridges did not meet the criteria which is disappointing news for affected whānau and Council. We remain closely engaged with these whānau as alternative solutions are sought.
“The St Legers Bridge on Ruakaka Road and the Huiarua Bridge on Mata Road are likely to receive funding due to their economic justification. These projects are awaiting final design, cost and design approvals.
“The Pauariki Bridge on Hikuwai Road and Gray’s Bridge on Bruce Road need additional economic and design evaluations. Serving small, remote areas, these bridge replacements are costly and less economically viable.
Bridges that will not be replaced include the Burgess Access Bridge on Burgess Road and the Mangatai Access Bridge on Te Kowhai Road. For the Mangatai Access Bridge, NZTA has endorsed an alternative route, that Council is now investigating in more detail.
“Changes in land use have removed the need for the Hangaroa Bridge replacement, however a new bridge is still under consideration as part of the Tiniroto Road realignment project past the Hangaroa Bluffs.
In addition to the funding announced for lost bridges, NZTA confirmed it would provide a further $11.4M for repairs to damaged bridges across the region.
“This funding provides the boost we need to ensure that our critically damaged bridges are repaired, enabling affected communities to function again.
“Despite the mixed news, these decisions enable Council to advance recovery plans and support affected whānau and communities. We are grateful for the funding and are committed to working with NZTA to ensure the region’s infrastructure is restored and resilient for the future.
For the latest updates, visit the Roads to Recovery page on the Gisborne District Council website: Roads to recovery | Gisborne District Council (gdc.govt.nz)
St Legers Bridge (pictured) on Ruakaka Road and the Huiarua Bridge on Mata Road are likely to receive funding due to their economic justification.