The backlash is growing against a speed limit increase in Rakaia, with the local National MP saying he supports a “sensible, safe speed” through the town.
Ashburton District Council wrote to the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) to strongly oppose the speed limit increasing on State Highway 1 through Rakaia- and it appears the Government is willing to listen.
The speed limit through the town is set to increase to 70kph by July 1, nine months after it was reduced to 50kph.
It’s one of the 38 sections of the state highway network that NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) will automatically reverse speed limits on.
Transport Minister Chris Bishop said he was aware of the immediate backlash to the announced speed reversal in Rakaia.
“It’s clear there is a range of views on speed limits in Rakaia.
“I have spoken to NZTA and they have assured me that those views will be listened to.”
Rangitata MP James Meager said reversing the blanket speed limit reductions may be welcomed in some parts of the country – but not Rakaia.
“I know there has been a lot of confusion and a bit of surprise about this one.”
Meager supported the reduction when it was introduced last year and “I still support that to be a sensible, safe speed through town which still allows traffic, people and goods to flow north and south”.
Ashburton Mayor Neil Brown said he sent a letter to NZTA asking for the speeds to remain in place.
“Council have conveyed their strong objection to NZTA and requested that the speed limits through the Rakaia township and district remain as they currently are to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of Rakaia residents as well as those who pass through the district.
“Rakaia is a thriving community that already faces traffic congestion and various road safety challenges, particularly with pedestrians and cyclists, including children, needing to cross the State Highway to access schools and the town’s facilities.”
Brown encouraged the community to speak up and let NZTA know how they feel about the planned reversal.
Rakaia Community Association chairperson Neil Pluck said last week the community is rallying in response to the change, but he conceded it felt “like a done deal”.
He didn’t feel confident the community’s concerns would be heard, as it had taken so long to get the reduction in the first place.
NZTA has acknowledged “people may have views on speed limits not open for consultation” and they can feedback on the Rakaia township speed reversal can email [email protected].
There is also 49 highway speed limit reversals that will go out for consultation, including the Rakaia River bridge to Weavers Road which was reduced to 80kph last year.
By Jonathan Leask
