Traffic data New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) is relying on to reject calls for new Waikato Expressway on off ramps near Cambridge Golf Club is several years old.
The modelling NZTA used three years ago for a detailed Cambridge to Piarere business case did not consider adding ramps, according to papers released to The News under the Official Information Act.
“On and off ramps at the intersection of Waikato Expressway and Tīrau Road are out of scope so there hasn’t been any need for NZTA to undertake any additional traffic modelling,” the roading agency told The News.
The business paper itself said alterations were not evaluated, suggesting the data NZTA is relying on now, to reject calls from groups like Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, predate August 2013 when work started on the Cambridge extension of Waikato Expressway.
Traffic numbers are expected to increase significantly if RS Sand Ltd gets the go ahead to build a giant quarry on the southern outskirts of Cambridge. Estimates of up to 400 trucks a day through the town have mobilised chamber members and other businesses including neighbouring land holder Windsor Park Leasing.
The southern interchange at Newcombe Road could be a quick release valve for traffic Cambridge, but NZTA argues a turning bay further south already provides that.
The company’s agent Mark Chrisp of Mitchell Daysh Ltd said while it supported the quarry application, it wanted RS Sand to help fund on off ramps in the absence of NZTA doing so.
This would minimise the effects of heavy vehicle movements within the town and could be funded by RS Sand through a financial contribution that would otherwise have been paid as a roading impact levy, said Chrisp.
The 5.5km degree of separation between the Hautapu interchange and Tīrau Rd was “consistent” with NZTA’s own design guidelines. Ramps could form part of the Cambridge to Piarere extension which has been fast tracked and due to start in late 2026, he said.
SH1 ran through Cambridge and when work on the bypass started 11 years ago, NZTA said its construction would improve safety by significantly reducing through traffic and reduce traffic noise within the town.
Louise Upston
Since its handover to Waipā District Council, traffic counts in Victoria and Hamilton roads at the St Andrew’s Church roundabout have increased dramatically due to housing and industrial growth throughout Cambridge and are now at or exceed the traffic levels when it was a state highway.
Taupō MP Louise Upston told The News NZTA had told her and Roading minister Simeon Brown that traffic volumes were insufficient to justify the addition of on off ramps at Tīrau Rd.
The implication was the traffic data was new.
Kelly Bouzaid
Cambridge Chamber of Commerce chief executive Kelly Bouzaid said her members were continually annoyed by NZTA’s rejection of the ramps.
“It is a strategic investment that not only addresses current traffic challenges, but also supports the town’s long-term growth, safety and sustainability,” she said.
It aligns with the council’s own spatial plan as it underpins all future planning, identifies opportunities for growth and investment and helps businesses know where and how to invest.
Meanwhile the date for submissions on the quarry now close on November 4, an extension of 10 working days.
Anyone was able to make a submission. “You just have to tell them your concerns and you will be considered. It’s a two-minute job.”
Read: No changes on the interchange
