State Highway review

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 7, Issue 361, 13 November 1990, Page 5

State Highway review

You will be aware by now that Transit New Zealand, who administer New Zealand's Highway System have recently reviewed the State Highway Network and have recommended the revocation of State Highway status for four State highways in the Ruapehu District. These are: • State Highway 40: Ahititi - Ohura Mangatupoto • State Highway 43: Stratford - Ohura • State Highway 49: Ohakune - Raetihi • State Highway 47A: Otuku - Rangipo If these recommendations are implemented it will cost the Council an extra $250, 000 per year just to maintain the routes at existing standards. This amount would increase if subsidies were decreased by Transit New Zealand, ($250, 000 represents a 5% rates increase at current rating levels). Transit New Zealand have indicated the possible replacement of either State Highway 40 or 43. It seems likely therefore either one. or the other could have State Highway status retained - not both. Under the terms of the criteria set down, State Highway 43 has a better chance of retaining the State Highway status as it has been declared a Heritage Trail. Further, the Ruapehu District and Manawatu Wanganui Regional Councils have requested the Raetihi Pipiriki River Road be declared a Special Purpose Road similar to the Bruce and Ohakune Mountain Roads. This request was declined, we believe most unfairly, given the creation of the Whanganui National Park and the consequent increase in the use of the road by tour operators, river users, hunters and trampers. A Special Purpose Road is a road which although not part of the Highway Network, nevertheless has a high tourist use and is therefore fully funded for maintenance purposes by Transit New Zealand. The facts that Transit New Zealand have taken in to consideration in deciding what will be State Highways are, that they: • Be of National importance. • Form part of a

National and lnterRegional Network connecting centres ofi population. • Provide the most convenient, efficient and safest route of those available with the least on capacity or legal weight limit. • Directly service major export/ import ports and industrial areas significant to the economy. • Give access to major tourist areas. • Carry a significant volume of Interregional traffic. Transit New Zealand are receiv ing submissions on their proposed recommendations up until the 30 th November 1990. I cannot stress enough how important it is that each and every one of us protest loud and strong to Transit New Zealand and point out the ramifications to this district of implementing these recommendations where our rural State Highways are concemed. This will assist Council in its fight to retain as much of the present State Highway System in this District as possible.To this end I would appreciate you or your organisation preparing and forwarding to Transit New Zealand by 30 November a strong and carefully worded submission including as much f actual information as possible about the use and importance of these Highways within the District which are under threat. Similar submissions, particularly from tourism and promotional organisations regarding the Raetihi - Pipiriki Road would greatly assist the Council in having this road declared a Special Purpose Road. Copies of your submission should also be sent to the Ministers of Tourism, Transport, Finance, Maori Affairs and also, please, to us at the Ruapehu District Council. I trust' many of you as possible will respond to this request. If we do not | fight now while we have the opportunity it will i be too late once final decisions , are made. I look forward to receiv ing your support.

G.S.

Workman

Mayor. j