Downer EDI Limited’s (Downer) joint venture with McConnell Dowell has secured a contract to deliver the NZD195m second stage of the Christchurch Southern Motorway (CSM2).

CSM2 is the final part in the Canterbury Roads of National Significance (RoNS) portfolio.

This stretch will complete a package of projects designed to address increased travel demand and congestion in the south of Christchurch and Canterbury.

“A project of this nature helps to ensure Christchurch remains an integral hub for the South Island into the future.”

The upgraded road network will offer better access to and from the south of Christchurch, the city centre and Lyttelton.

Further, it will boost the capacity, safety and alignment of the Christchurch Southern Corridor.

New Zealand Transport Minister Simon Bridges said: “As home to New Zealand’s second largest airport and second busiest export port, Christchurch plays a critical role in the economic development of the whole South Island.

“It is the transport gateway for tourism and business, making access to the city, its freight hubs and export markets critical for the economic success of the whole country.”

CSM2 comprises 8km of new 4 lane motorway, 5km of existing SH1 duplication, 5km of local roads and adaptions, seven  bridges over the new highway and one local road culverted beneath it.

Construction will commence in October and is expected to be completed by late 2019.

CSM2 project manager Marc Papke said: “We are looking forward to continuing the tried and tested partnership that is already in play on the Russley Rd Upgrade project in Christchurch.

“A project of this nature helps to ensure Christchurch remains an integral hub for the South Island into the future.”

The partnership between the two companies, which will be led by a joint management team, will combine Downer’s strength in road works and McConnell Dowell’s expertise in bridges and structures.

Both companies also bring experience developed as part of their involvement in SCIRT over the last five years.