Barriers and lights an attempt to avoid 'future tragedy' at Napier Port

One of the two truck and train collisions at Napier Port over the past two years. Photo / Paul Taylor

Traffic lights will be installed on Breakwater Rd and rail barrier arms at the port's western entrance after two truck and train collisions in two years.

Several near-misses have also been reported recently, as road, rail, foot and cycle traffic in the area continues to grow.

Napier Port has been working with the NZ Transport Agency and KiwiRail on a plan to improve safety at what had now become a congested area.

NZTA Hawke's Bay-Gisborne System Management spokesman Oliver Postings said a solution was complex, but he said the three organisations had worked in closely to deliver what he said was the safety answer.

"Not only are we improving safety at the gate but the traffic lights will help traffic flow evenly into the port and slow the speeds of vehicles coming around the Ahuriri bypass and into the city."

Push button pedestrian controls will be installed to help walkers, runners and cyclists safely get through the gateway area and new flashing lights will make the crossing of the rail line to the beach safer.

Napier Port chief executive Todd Dawson said despite additional signage advising of caution in the area the risks, given the increased usage, accordingly had increased.

"Outside of the serious truck and train collisions, other scary incidents include cars going in or out to park by the beach driving in front of trucks," he said.

There had also been cases where some drivers had exited by using the entry road, and children had been seen running towards the tracks where trains were going past.

He said the strong and focused collaboration those involved had undertaken was essential to avoid a "future tragedy" in the area.

The crossing was a crucial link for shifting freight from KiwiRail's Ahururi yards to the port, general manager of operations for the lower North Island Anthony Mills said.

"Making sure the crossing operates safely is our top priority," he said.

"It is distressing for our drivers and crews when we see people taking risks in front of trains."

Mills said linking the barrier arms to the traffic lights would not only prevent trucks crossing in front of trains but would also mean trucks did not have their trailers hanging over the rail lines as they exited.

Underground work for the lights and barriers is now under way with the new system scheduled to be up and running around late February.

On the road front, NZTA contract crews are also at work on a seal widening programme between Te Aute and Otane on State Highway 2 south and repair works and widening on SH2 north around Morere Hill and Tutira.