Letter: Vaimaanga road closure

Residents of Vaimaanga should not be complacent, and ignore what is happening in their village. The development at the old Sheraton Hotel site is moving along at pace, most people would and indeed should applaud the developer for his bravery, investment and achievements on this once derelict property.

However NOT at the expense of closing the existing coastal main road, to the huge detriment and inconvenience of residents and regular road users. Everyone must be waiting for some sort of signal from NES (National Environment Service), with regard to the EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment) requirements. Last indication from the boss of NES was that they were waiting for guidance from Crown Law, which seems quite odd, as the NES document “Environment Significance Declaration and Permit” clearly and unequivocally states what is required. Why does NES need clarification with regard to their own document?

Or is there a “GO Slow” signal from Government, who have NO issue with the main road closure?

As one prominent resident said at a public meeting, if the road is closed government will have a war on its hands. Concerned citizens should remain alert as to what is going on, and put pressure on to keep the coastal road open.

(Name and address supplied)