Extra $47 million for roadworks announced

2.45pm

The Government is going to spend an extra $47 million on roadworks to improve safety.

Transport Minister Paul Swain said today the money would double the amount allocated and would be used throughout the network.

Projects like improving accident blackspots, lighting at intersections and removing roadside obstacles would be involved.

"This new funding is an example of the partnership approach between central government agencies and local government, which supports the Government's goal of improving safety and security on our roads," he said.

Priorities will be identified and the work will be carried out during the next two years.

The Government is already spending $300 million on capital works and maintenance which is safety-related.

The new funding is a part of the Government's road safety strategy announced by Mr Swain on Monday.

The strategy aims to reduce road casualties to no more than 300 deaths and 4500 hospital admissions a year by 2010.

The plan is to achieve that through improving roads, a driver education campaign, and enforcement of laws covering drink driving and speeding.

The possibility of reducing speed limits and lowering alcohol limits have been raised recently but the strategy does not contain specifics on those issues.

Among the planned road improvements are trials for median cable barriers to separate traffic flow and clearing roadside hazards like culverts and lamp posts.

- NZPA

Herald Feature: Road safety