The NZ Transport Agency works to create transport solutions for all New Zealanders. Credit: NZ Transport Agency.

The NZ Transport Agency, in collaboration with Western Bay of Plenty District Council, is set to commence a trial to check whether delays can be reduced for people using State Highway 2 (SH 2) near TePuna.

The trial, which will last for a period of two weeks, will be carried out between Clarke Road and TePuna Station Road on weekdays from 14 May to 25 May.

Additionally, various solutions are being trialled, including removing the right-turn into TePuna Station Road from SH 2, speed reductions on the road and closing it from Clarke Road.

During the trial period, travellers can access SH 2 from Clarke Road or TePuna Road.

Upon completion of the trial, its results will be evaluated and more permanent options may be implemented.

“The results will be analysed and we will be in contact with the community again to let them know the outcome.”

NZ Transport Agency Bay of Plenty journey manager Nigel D’Ath said that the changes should decrease the number of people using the side roads and will hopefully lead to improved and more consistent travel time.

“We will have people on site monitoring this trial and if queues become too long it will be removed.

“The results will be analysed and we will be in contact with the community again to let them know the outcome.”

Last year, traffic volumes and travel time data were collected when TePuna Station Road was closed for slip repairs and again when it was re-opened.

The data showed some minor reduction in travel time on SH 2 when the station road was closed. A more in-depth trial is currently needed during the school term.