Plans for a second bridge in Ashburton have taken a step forward, with the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) Board approving the business case and signing a partner agreement with Ashburton District Council on how the project will be delivered.
Associate Transport Minister and Minister for the South Island James Meager said the agreement marked a significant milestone for the region.
“This is great news for the people of Mid Canterbury and for the resiliency of State Highway 1,” Meager said. “It is so important that we have a resilient roading network to connect our island and ensure the safe and reliable movement of people and goods up and down the island.”
He said the existing Ashburton Bridge carried approximately 24,000 vehicles each day and was a key connection for supply chains, emergency services, and local travel between Tinwald and Ashburton.
“We all remember when the bridge was knocked out in 2021, and Dunedin was 3 days away from running out of food,” Meager said.
“Building this bridge was one of our key commitments at the start of this term and locals will be pleased to see work is moving ahead at pace.
“A second bridge will reduce congestion, improve road safety, reduce delays, improve reliability in the case of potential closures, and help accommodate future growth.”
Geotechnical investigations are expected to begin shortly, with a Registration of Interest going to market next week for technical and design support. Procurement for detailed design and construction is scheduled for later in the year.
NZTA will manage the design and construction of the bridge and adjoining roads, while Ashburton District Council will be responsible for funding a section of new local road, as outlined in the agreement.
“I would like to thank Ashburton District Council and Mayor Neil Brown for the progress made on the second Ashburton Bridge so far, which has enabled the acceleration of this key project that will serve many people heading into the future,” Meager said.
Construction is expected to start in mid-2026, subject to approvals.
The Government will fund 100 percent of the bridge. The wider project includes local road upgrades, such as intersection improvements between Carters Terrace and Grahams Street, which fall under the council’s responsibilities.
