Redclyffe Bridge to open for restricted use

Redclyffe Bridge at Waiohiki will reopen to traffic from 11am on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, with weight and speed restrictions.

The bridge, which is jointly owned by Hastings district and Napier city councils, is a combination of a new temporary structure in the middle, and existing concrete spans of the old bridge at either end.

Using the span elements of the old bridge has helped enable the connection to be re-established more quickly and has enabled there to be two-way traffic flow and a walking and cycling connection.

The focus of the works has been to re-establish a connection for light vehicles and emergency services as a key priority.

As such, the bridge will be open to light vehicles (up to eight tonnes), public transport, and emergency services only. Trucks and vehicles over eight tonnes will be required to keep travelling via the SH2 crossing of the Tūtaekurī River.

Hastings District Council group manager asset management Craig Thew said the load restriction was needed due to the sections/spans of the old bridge at each end.

“These sections have cracks that have been treated, but they will require monitoring and ongoing management of loads placed on the bridge.” 

As there is still work happening through the Waiohiki community, and to help manage the traffic flows, there will also be a speed restriction of 30km/hr over the bridge and the full length of Waiohiki Road and the intersections at each end.

Council and its contractors, alongside Police, will monitor the site and review the traffic controls over time.

“We ask that the wider community are patient and respectful as this link reopens, and given there is work continuing in the area, that they do not stop and park their vehicles,” said Mr Thew.

Hastings District Council thanked Police for working alongside the community and Council to support the safe, secure reopening of this area.

Council also thanked the Waiohiki and surrounding community for their patience while the significant work to re-establish this important connection was completed.

Having the temporary bridge in place will allow for the consideration of any future flood control works, and planning and consultation on the future road network and permanent bridge options.

ENDS

5 August 2023

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