Two-week delay for Springfield roadworks completion in Rotorua

Roadworks described as a "nightmare" by neighbouring shops in Rotorua will be completed at least two weeks behind schedule.

Almost a year ago Rotorua Lakes Council decided to add a raised roundabout and two pedestrian crossings to the intersection at the corner of Otonga Rd and Springfield Rd, following nine crashes in seven years.

At the time it said the project was expected to be complete by January 2018, but the work was not started until early January, "because the successful contractor was unavailable earlier due to other work commitments".

Roadworks at the corner of Otonga Rd and Springfield Rd. Photo/Andrew Warner

Last month the council's infrastructure general manager Stavros Michael said weather-permitting council expected the roadworks "to be completed by mid-April as planned".

But this week he confirmed the roundabout would now not be fully operational until May 2 "all going well".

Michael said this was due to the unavailability of asphalt.

"With multiple roading projects happening across the district, the supply is limited so the earliest date to lay the asphalt is the evenings of April 29 and 30. During these times the roundabout will be closed from 9pm onwards and detours will be in place via McDowell and Nikau Sts.

"The final chip seal will be laid on May 1 with work taking place between school drop off and pick up times."

The artist impression of the roundabout upgrade. Image/supplied

Temporary traffic lights are still being used at the intersection, but not around the clock.

"Lights are still being used during weekdays when the contractors are working on the road but are being turned off during the weekends and evenings when no work is taking place.

"The lights will be permanently removed once the works on the road are completed and there is no longer a need for safety controls."

Guidough's bakery owner Melanie Bachmann said she had been impacted financially since the work started outside her front window.

She laid off two staff because she did not have enough work for them.

"Every day they get behind makes it harder for us. It has been terrible. We have no choice but to hang on."

Bachmann said it was "crazy" that contractors were unable to finish the chip seal during the school holidays.

"I am wondering if it is even worth us opening then?" She said.