Call for Patience as the Big Road Repair Job Gets Underway

Some of Marlborough’s rural roads have taken a battering in the recent floods and repairs are expected to run to about $1.3M.

It’s going to be Christmas before all the work is done, given the extent of the damage inflicted over July and August.

Marlborough Roads Senior Assets Manager Wayne Oldfield says the maintenance contractor is working as quickly as possible but there will be some continuing inconvenience particularly for the rural community.

“Repairs are needed from the D’Urville Island to the Ure Valley so it’s a large area and we have to do the most urgent work first. We do appreciate that it’s going to be inconvenient for some people but we’re asking everybody to be patient until the contractor reaches their local road,” he said.

First priority will be given to those roads serving larger communities or schools. The work ranges from laying new seal to rebuilding retaining walls.

Most roads have now reopened although there are still problems in Seddon and Ward and drivers still need to take particular care through the Kenepuru and the Ure where slips and dropouts have occurred.

Marlborough’s long range forecast for more showery weather means that slips will remain a continuing risk and drivers should be vigilant.