Transport Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) Board's approval of funding towards a major upgrade to State Highway 1.
The SH1 Belfast to Pegasus Motorway and Woodend Bypass Road of National Significance aims to alleviate congestion on the critical route, which carries up to 21,500 vehicles daily, including heavy freight vehicles. Expected traffic volumes are set to rise by up to 28,000 by 2048, highlighting the need for a vital upgrade.
The project is expected to improve travel times by up to 11 minutes during peak hours and make the route safer for motorists, with a focus on reducing congestion bottlenecks. The NZTA plans to begin procurement, enabling works and construction within the next three years on the first phase of seven RoNS, including this South Island corridor.
The upgrade is part of the Government's commitment to unlock more land for housing in the Waimakariri district and provide reliable freight connections to key markets. With its impact expected to benefit local commuters, tourists, and businesses, the Canterbury Road upgrade is set to play a significant role in supporting economic growth in the region.
The NZ Transport Agency will now move at pace to deliver the project, with construction set to begin within three years.