Transport Minister Simeon Brown has announced the Government will partly fund the Pages Road Bridge replacement in Christchurch.

Brown said, “The replacement of the Pages Road Bridge as a local road project underlines our commitment to building and maintaining our roading network to the high standard Kiwis expect.

“This project is part of a broader effort to improve transport infrastructure, which includes reducing travel times and improving public transport options.”

The Pages Road Bridge replacement is among several key infrastructure projects prioritised under the NLTP, focusing on enhancing transport connectivity and safety in local communities.

Brown said “Our government is committed to making sure that every dollar is spent wisely on the projects and services needed to grow our economy and enable Kiwis to get to where they want to go, quickly and safely.”

The NLTP aims to address critical areas of the transport network, including:

– Focusing on maintenance and pothole prevention to improve road conditions.
– Increasing investment in public transport services to provide more travel options.
– Replacing priority infrastructure, such as bridges, to increase resilience and safety.

Brown said, “By investing in vital projects like the Pages Road Bridge replacement, we are not only supporting local communities but also ensuring the transport network meets the needs of all New Zealanders.

This investment will contribute to fewer potholes, better road safety, and more reliable public transport services.”

Christchurch East MP  Reuben Davidson, who campaigned for Government funding, said “It’s good to see people power win.

“There has been a real concern in our community about the risks of the current bridge. Now we get the replacement we deserve and have been asking for.

“So far it looks like Central Government are contributing $13m, which is less than 25% of the total budget. I’d like to think they could do more for this community.”

Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger said “It’s great news from Minister Simeon Brown this afternoon.

“I have raised the funding of this bridge with the Minister at every opportunity I have had to meet with him and am thrilled that the Government has listened and will help fund this key priority for the City.

“The bridge suffered significant damage in the earthquakes and is a key lifeline to New Brighton so our Council has already planned to deliver this in our Long Term Plan, but to get Government funding towards it makes a huge difference.

“Today’s announcement shows just how important it is to be having ongoing discussions with government ministers about priorities for our city.

I can’t wait to see this project get underway – bring it on.”

Council’s Finance and Performance Committee Chair Sam MacDonald said “We are thrilled Government have come to the party over Pages Road bridge.

Council has been working to replace this so to have additional funding from the Government is great for our City.

“Early indications suggest they won’t fund the bizzare speed bumps or anti car design work, but instead put funding towards the actual bridge to ensure people can get out in the event of an emergency”

Mayor Phil Mauger has been working on securing this funding since the change of Government, those efforts have paid off for the city”