Get moving: Oteha Valley speed limit stuck in the slow lane

Q: There is a temporary speed limit of 60km/h in Oteha Valley Rd, from Albany to the motorway. It has been in place for over a year, yet it is a completed four-lane road. Can anyone explain why? Graeme Ogg, Albany.

A: Before Christmas, North Shore City Council asked for, and got, feedback from locals in an attempt to set a speed limit for Oteha Valley Rd. Previously the limit was 80km/h, and during roadworks, this was dropped to 50km/h. The majority of support was for a 60km/h limit. The council has now gone to Land Transport NZ to seek its opinion.

Q: Just wondered if the councils had taken a look at the possibility of applying the same traffic control system on the motorway between Waterview and Te Atatu as exists on the harbour bridge? Moving the centre barrier over one lane morning and evening would certainly improve traffic flow. Michael Mitchell, Waimanu Bay.

A: It has been considered, and the idea will be taken into consideration when that part of the motorway is widened. Transit hopes that the improved Upper Harbour Highway will reduce the load on the Northwestern and thereby reduce the need for movable barriers.

Q: What has happened to the traffic lights at the intersection of Binsted Rd and Rata St in New Lynn? Until recently the westbound traffic used to flow reasonably smoothly through here, but now there are tailbacks as far as Blockhouse Bay Rd in afternoon peaks. Has the phasing been changed? Carol Ryan, Auckland.

A: Unfortunately, the problem is more than just phasing. Auckland City Council has had a chat with the Traffic Management Unit which has overall control of traffic light administration. It appears that there is an operational issue, which means that the lights are broken.