NZTA working on 'Plan B' to clear gorge

A massive slip has put the Waioeka Gorge out of action for at least a month. Photo / Gisborne Herald

As frustration and anger mounts in Gisborne, New Zealand Transport Agency says it is working on a "Plan B" to open the Waioeka Gorge between the city and eastern Bay of Plenty.

A meeting was held with NZTA consultants this morning to discuss the feasibility of building two Bailey bridges - temporary structures. If the Bailey bridges went ahead, drivers would be able to divert around the 100,000 cu m landslide on State Highway 2 in the gorge until it is cleared.

The other option discussed was to create a temporary road across the Opatu Stream by placing large culverts in the stream and applying a temporary road seal over the top of it.

Bay of Plenty acting state highway manager Brett Gliddon said geological assessment today would help NZTA determine whether the bank on the opposite side of the Opatu Stream was stable enough to take a bridge or temporary road crossing.

"We will soon have an outline of the costs and time for either option, to determine which option will be suitable."

Gisborne Mayor Meng Foon said it was good to hear the NZTA was considering it as an option.

"The idea is to put a Bailey bridge across the Opatu Stream and another Bailey bridge on the other side of the slip controlled by traffic lights.

"I know NZTA have a difficult job, but our community and business community are hurting."