Project purpose
The WBB was identified during the Northern Roading Options Scoping Study (NROSS) as a long-term improvement for access from the north of Christchurch to the Christchurch International Airport and the industrial area at Hornby.
Around 37,000 vehicles per day, amongst the highest for any road in Canterbury, use Main North Road through Belfast to enter and exit Christchurch. This volume of traffic and in particular the trucks and heavy vehicles using the road discourage walking and cycling and restrict public transport. As traffic volumes grow, congestion will become worse, and safety and public health concerns will increase around the Main North Road/ Belfast Area.
The WBB is an important link in the Christchurch Western Corridor and has been identified by the Government as a Road of National Significance (RoNS) – one of seven roads of national significance around New Zealand, and one of a number of projects that make up the Christchurch Motorways RoNS. The RoNS are critical for supporting economic growth, reducing congestion and improving safety in our region.
The NZTA are currently investigating options for a median divided WBB that would run for approximately 5kms from the Northern Motorway (SH1) to connect with Johns Road (SH1) near the entrance to The Groynes Regional Park.
Benefits
For traffic travelling through Belfast to reach the airport and Hornby - reduced congestion with shorter travelling times between the north and western Christchurch.
For the local community - an estimated 17,000 fewer vehicles per day on Main North Road will improve the safety and quality of life for Belfast residents. With the decrease in traffic volumes, walking and cycling much safer and more attractive and there’ll be scope for more public transport. It will be easier to cross Main North Road and noise and air pollution will also be reduced.
For the future - The bypass, as part of the Belfast Area Plan, will enable Belfast to become a vibrant growing community served by a network of roads that enable development of new housing, social, commercial and recreational facilities.
Features
- A safer road, with a raised median and no driveways - access to adjoining properties will continue from Johns Road and Main North Road.
- Lighting along the bypass route will be designed to minimise glare to adjacent properties while meeting safety requirements.
- Pedestrian and cycle links across the Western Belfast Bypass will enable safe and convenient access to The Groynes and maintain the Waimairi Walkway circuit. Underpasses or overpasses are currently being investigated.
- Cycle or pedestrian paths along the Western Belfast Bypass are likely to be limited to connections between local development and access to the Groynes.
- Landscaping, including planting and ground contouring will reduce the impact of the road on its surroundings.
The NZTA is working with the Christchurch City Council to ensure the bypass supports the Council's development plans for The Groynes. Safe public access is a top priority for both organisations. A vehicle, cycle and pedestrian underpass (restricting heavy vehicle access) is likely to be provided close to the current entrance. An additional pedestrian and cycle only entranceway to the north is being investigated.
Important update – October 2010
The NZTA are seeking feedback on the preferred alignment of the WBB and options for a north-bound off ramp, and proposed re-alignment of a section of the Otukaikino Stream near Dickeys Road.
Please refer to the latest consultation newsletter (PDF, 562KB) for an update on the project. You can also provide your feedback by completing the feedback form (PDF, 99KB), or by emailing wbb@nzta.govt.nz.
Public open day
The NZTA is holding a public open day to discuss the proposed options and seek community feedback on the proposed project. Information on two RoNS projects in the Belfast area will be available for discussion at the open day. These two projects are:
- The Western Belfast Bypass
- The Northern Arterial & QEII Drive Four-Laning
NZTA staff and the project consultants will present plans and be available to discuss the options for these projects. The time and location is:
Tuesday 16 November
3.30 pm – 7.30 pm - Belfast Rugby Clubrooms (18 March Place, Belfast).
