New Zealand / Transport

Notorious New Plymouth road long-awaited upgrade underway

11:54 am on 12 February 2023

From Monday, a section of the road will be under stop-go management. Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly

The rebuilding of a notorious section of road in New Plymouth is about to get underway as part of a $23 million district-wide investment in road maintenance.

Egmont Road has a long history of near-misses due to its shape and grade, which meant drivers tend to cross the centre line.

There has been one fatal and 11 minor and non-injury crashes there since 1999.

From Monday, a section of the road will be under stop-go management during working hours and traffic lights will operate overnight.

Between 21 February and 22 March, it will be closed completely.

"Homes and businesses will still be accessible during the closure although people will have to use alternative roads," New Plymouth District Council transportation manager Rui Leitao said.

"Please plan your travel route ahead of time."

The fix will cost $350,000.