Road concerns prompt council action

COMPLAINTS: A new road layout at the Kokotau/Millars Rd intersection has led to complaints from truck drivers. PHOTO/LYNDA FERINGA

Complaints about changes to the Kokotau and Millars Rd intersection have left Carterton councillors pledging to be more involved in the planning process.

Speaking at this week's council meeting, Mayor John Booth said the contractor had done a good job on the improvements, which included a new T-intersection, despite design faults that mean consultation was needed before undertaking similar work in future.

Councillor Bill Knowles was disappointed with the new layout, which had "no relevance to a farming community".

Mr Booth said council would be more involved in the upcoming upgrade to Para Rd.

Pinfolds Transport director Steve Pinfold said he had raised concerns with council regarding changes to the road, which meant trucks picking up stock could no longer park near the corner.

Mr Pinfold declined to comment further.

Speaking after the meeting, Councillor Mike Ashby said there had been complaints about the new layout, with concerns expressed over the possibility of trailers rolling if trucks took the corner too fast.

The new high-tonnage triple axle trucks might have difficulties with the turn, he said.

"We don't feel there was enough regard taken of the users of the intersection - there are a lot of trucks that use that intersection and the road is poorly designed for trucks and trailers."

Also speaking after the meeting, Mr Booth said there had been some teething problems.

"There should've been some involvement with the trucking companies because it's often where they stop and go and fill their trailer and come back."

"We want to get involved with the planners right at the first stages and involve the local community that it effects so that they have some input ... we need to be more proactive and be part of the planning for these changes - and it's the council's responsibility to interact with the local people."

Mr Ashby said the roading committee intended to review the engineering plans for future roading improvements.

Council was still discussing with roading engineers what could now be done to improve the Millars Rd intersection, he said.