Council Taking Action To Address Farm Road Slip

Thursday 6 September 2018

A substantial slip on Farm road resulted in significant damage as a result of the June 2018 flooding event.

Central Hawke’s Bay District Council instigated the clearance of the slip debris off the road and cleared the inundated drainage system as an initial response to safeguard the road.  At the time of the clean-up there was material still hanging above the road encompassing a large area approximately 25 metres wide and 400 metres long and an estimated depth of four metres.

The road was cleared for two-way traffic but due to the nature of the material (bentonite), the material above the road continues a slow creep across the road and has required further attention. The numerous underground springs throughout the length of the slip adds to its instability.

Downer, Council’s roading maintenance contractor continues to actively monitor the area and clear the debris as required. Temporary traffic control has been put in place and one way signage is currently in operation. Slip movement measurement has been set up to provide more information on the amount of movement, with staff and Contractors continuing to assess the impact of the current heavy rainfall event.

Council recognises that Farm Road significantly impacts local residents and communicating with local residents is important. Earlier last week, correspondence was delivered to residents in the area providing an update.

“Farm Road is an important part of our roading network and Council want to ensure that local residents are kept informed on progress, as we investigate a long term solution. Focussing on our Communities objectives from Project THRIVE, we want to deliver durable infrastructure and achieve the best long term benefits for our community,” says Josh Lloyd, Group Manager – Community Development and Infrastructure.

Council have engaged specialist engineers to review the site and report on options to address this over-slip location. Due to the nature of the current saturated debris material, any recommended options would have to take place in drier conditions. The Geotechnical Engineer will be providing a report on options of addressing the issue and isolating further debris slippages onto the road.

Once a solution is determined Council will engage a contractor to undertake the appropriate works. Due to the instability of the slope and the nature of the material all work will have to be completed in dry weather which could mean work is undertaken in early 2019. 

7 September 2018

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