Live near a motorway? More noise barriers investigated

It is unknown exactly where the barriers will go, but residents of Hewson and Findley streets in Ellerslie have been campaigning for noise protection.

Ellerslie residents suffering from motorway noise are in for relief with confirmation new barriers will be built along a section of State Highway 1.

The NZ Transport Agency is also investigating noise barriers for other sections of urban motorways in Auckland.

Work on the Ellerslie barriers will begin by the middle of the year, Transport Minister Simon Bridges said.

"I'm confident that the installation of these noise barriers will significantly reduce the disturbance caused to residents by traffic noise from the motorway. They're a good solution that will make a noticeable difference."

NZTA could not say exactly where the Ellerslie barriers will be built, as designs are still to be finalised.

However, residents on Findlay and Hewson Streets, near the Ellerslie Train Station, have been lobbying for action on motorway noise.

The Ellerslie Residents Association (ERA) has pushed for sound barriers, saying noise has increased as traffic worsens and since the completion of the fourth northbound lane.

Ellerslie Business Association also supports the installation of sound barriers.