Walk and cycle trail a step closer to completion

Completion of the Invercargill to Bluff walk and cycle trail is another step closer, with the majority of funding secured.

Councillors were updated on the project at the Strategy and Policy Committee meeting yesterday (13/03) where they noted that many of the issues delaying progress have been resolved.

Environment Southland and Invercargill City Council have committed $50,000 per year for three years to allow for the completion of the project. In addition, a successful application to the National Land Transport Fund will mean additional local funding won't be required.

Chairman Nicol Horrell said the completion of the trail will be great for the region and great for road safety. Funding has been the biggest stumbling block, so to have that sorted is a huge relief and I can't wait to see this trail completed all the way to Bluff.

The Councils are still awaiting the outcome of an additional funding application which would see the trail sealed. This would have the advantage that all cycles, including road bikes, would be able to use it and be taken off the State Highway. Sealed trails needed to be constructed to a higher pavement standard and width than a gravel trail.

Once the outcome of the additional funding is known, tenders to complete the work can be called for.