Scott’s Thoughts

The reality of a lengthy closure of SH25A is hitting home to all who have seen the images of the damaged highway. When I visited the site of the collapse it was horrific to see the scale of destruction. It’s going to take an enormous effort to get this crucial connection back up and running.

I have been and will continue to work with Mayor Len Salt to pressure central government and agencies to get on with the job as quickly as possible and to provide the support we need from them right now. We’ve come to rely on SH25A not just for the delivery of goods or as a way for tourists to make their way to our popular beaches, but also many of us have work and personal commitments on both sides of the Peninsula. Every community on the Coromandel will be impacted while SH25A is closed.

I’m hosting three public information meetings this Friday 17 February and I encourage everyone to come along to hear what progress is being made to repair the highway. These will be held at:

10.00am – 11.30am Whitianga, Town Hall

1.30pm – 3.00pm Whangamata,

Memorial Hall

6.00pm – 7.30pm Thames, Civic Centre

While everyone understands the repair job is complex and will take time, that is little comfort for Coromandel businesses doing it tough right now. Our area relies on increased trade over the holidays to help get through the winter period, but this year we’ve experienced a disrupted summer and quiet long weekends. The best way we can support local businesses is to shop local whenever we can. We also need to keep encouraging people to visit the Coromandel. Just because SH25A is closed doesn’t mean the Peninsula is closed. We’re here and open for business and welcoming visitors. Now is a great opportunity for people to take other routes around our region and to explore all the beauty and scenic splendour the Coromandel has to offer.

Authorised by Scott Simpson, MP

614 Pollen St, Thames