The NCI Project Alliance is set to start construction works in the Northern Corridor Improvements (NCI) project in New Zealand next month.

In addition to the New Zealand Transport Agency, the NCI Project Alliance comprises Fulton Hogan, HEB Construction, Opus and Jacobs.

As part of the project, a new connection will be created between the Northern Motorway (State Highway 1) and State Highway 18, in addition to providing better transport choices with 7km-long walking and cycling paths.

The early preparation works on the project have already started, including engaging the local communities to appraise about the construction works.

New Zealand Transport Agency Project Delivery senior manager Chris Hunt said: “Residents and commuters on the North Shore will have already noticed early preparation works, including night works which have been under way since January, ahead of the main construction period.

“Extensive community engagement is already under way to make sure that all affected neighbours and businesses know what will be happening during construction, ahead of time.”

“Extensive community engagement is already under way to make sure that all affected neighbours and businesses know what will be happening during construction, ahead of time.”

Under the project, the overpass connecting SH1 southbound to SH18 westbound will be replaced with an underpass to reduce necessary earthworks and minimise noise and visual impact for the local communities.

At the place where Paul Matthews Road joins Upper Constellation Drive (SH18), the original design had a bridge crossing the motorway to Paul Matthews Drive.

The new plan involves constructing the Paul Matthews Drive alongside the motorway to connect it directly at a new intersection at Caribbean Drive.

This modification will lead to a significant reduction in earthworks, as well as minimise the impact on traffic during construction.