Pepe Stream Bridge replacement options shared with the community

Waka Kotahi is working through a business case for replacement bridge options for the Pepe Stream Bridge. Photo / Supplied

The importance of a safe, more-resilient Tairua community came to the fore as people had their say on proposed Pepe Stream Bridge replacement options at a public drop-in session at Tairua School last week.

More than 70 people attended the session held by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, with those who weren't able to attend able to provide their feedback online.

Waka Kotahi is working through a business case for replacement bridge options for the Pepe Stream Bridge. The business case is expected to be completed by the end of 2021.

Director of regional relationships David Speirs says: "We've already heard from over 900 locals, community groups and businesses about how they use the bridge and how it might best serve their needs into the future, which helped us develop the shortlist of proposed design options we shared with the community.

"We know the community is overwhelmingly in favour of making the bridge two lanes and having a safe path for people who walk and cycle.

Local kaumatua Joe Davis (Ngati Hei), with members of the Tairua community at the Graham's Stream footbridge site for the blessing before the construction. Photo / Supplied

"It is also important that the proposed new bridge supports the community in feeling safe, connected and caters for future growth in the town," says Mr Speirs.

Once the feedback period closes, Waka Kotahi will determine the most appropriate bridge design.

Once funding is approved, the bridge replacement will move into the detailed design and then construction phases.

"We're committed to working with the Tairua community and keeping them informed as we confirm funding and timing for the design and construction phases. This will take time, but it's important we get the design right and consider how we maintain access for everyone during construction," says Speirs.

The Pepe Stream Bridge remains safe to use. Waka Kotahi carries out regular inspections to ensure all state highway bridges in New Zealand remain safe.

There is still time to have your say. Feedback is open until 5pm on Wednesday, August 25.

Also in Tairua, Waka Kotahi has started building a footbridge so walkers and cyclists can safely cross Graham's Stream.

A small blessing led by local Kaumatua Joe Davis (Ngāti Hei) was held at the construction site of the Graham's Stream footbridge on last week, before the crew dug their first hole.

"We told the community back in June the footbridge was on its way, so it's great to be starting the construction. The footbridge will allow for safer journeys for walkers and cyclists in Tairua, especially during busy holiday periods," says Waikato system manager Cara Lauder.

At present, pedestrians and cyclists must use the existing single-lane bridge, which is shared with state highway traffic.

The suspension footbridge will sit about 5m downstream of the existing bridge and will include a path across the berm to connect it with the road.

The bridge construction will take about six weeks, subject to weather.
The public will be notified when the bridge is officially opened for use.