Public get chance to test-walk new bypass

A one-off invitation has been issued for a quiet stroll to inspect the new Bell Block bypass before it opens to the roar of traffic.

The $20 million bypass is expected to open to motorists later this month.

Before then, the Bell Block and District Residents Society has arranged with the New Zealand Transport Agency to allow a once-only inspection, on foot, on Waitangi Day.

Mobility scooters, wheelchairs and prams are welcome, but not cars or bikes.

Mary Perrott, the society's secretary, says people can arrive any time between 11am and 2pm and walk in either direction to inspect the new four-lane highway between Egmont Rd and Paraite Rd.

Cars can be parked under the Henwood Rd overbridge where marshals from the Bell Block Lions will direct the parking. "All of the Bell Block and District Residents Society are very excited at this super opportunity and look forward to seeing residents from all over the district come and walk it," Mrs Perrott said.

A gold coin donation from each family is requested.

The money will go towards maintaining and upgrading Bell Block's heart defibrillator, which is based at Video Ezy in the main shopping area.

- © Fairfax NZ News