Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
Roadworks to increase the resilience and safety of SH8 between Cromwell and Clyde are due to start next week (10 March), says NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).
The works will result in delays for road users in both directions, as intermittent traffic stops will be in operation for up to eight weeks along the Cromwell Gorge slopes and benches*, just north of Clyde.
Crews will work to clear debris from the benches and assess stability at the Clyde end of the Cromwell Gorge, says NZTA Project Manager John O’Neill.
“While we appreciate delays are frustrating this is an essential piece of work which will improve the resilience, as well as the safety of the network, with debris removed from above road level. We ask road users for patience and understanding.”
Works will run from Monday, 10 March to Friday, 16 May, 8am to 5pm each weekday.
Traffic will be held in both directions intermittently as required. Drivers need to build in delays of up to 15 minutes for the next two months, weekdays.
Cromwell Gorge slopes and benches.
For all travel updates, roadworks and road closures please visit: NZTA Journey Planner
Journey Planner(external link)
Background on the Cromwell Gorge slopes and benches
The benches on SH8 in the Cromwell Gorge, are 2km north of Clyde. They have been in existence for around 40 years and were constructed upslope as part of the development of SH8 during the creation of Lake Dunstan and the Clyde Hydro Dam.
Crews with abseilers will be using mechanical methods to remove any unstable rock, with drilling and blasting if required when there is no traffic underneath the benches.
