Welcome Bay has been turning over new earth in recent weeks.
The first is the new Maungatapu Underpass Project. Spade in hand, my colleague Transport Minister Simon Bridges and I joined community and business representatives at the sod- turning ceremony in early September.
The $45 million underpass will reduce congestion on both the Hairini and Maungatapu Roundabouts and is designed to improve safety on our roads. I have been travelling to and from Welcome Bay since I was a boy, this has been talked about for years, particularly since SH29 highway was built in the 1980s, so it’s great to finally see it happen!
We’ve also been digging deeper as a community to work closer on the issue of family violence. People experiencing family violence often talk about how difficult it can be to ask for help, or to face numerous appearances in court to provide testimonies; thus, the Government is now reviewing our legislation to better support those victims.
In September, I held a public meeting attended by representatives from the Police and local organisations “It’s not OK” and Papamoa Family Services to explore these issues. Hearing the community’s thoughts and concern for the matter was encouraging to see. Those contributions will filter into the discussions I will have with Justice Minister Amy Adams in coming weeks and months.
Welcome Bay is a constant hub of activity – as its MP, it’s a privilege to see so many exciting developments taking place. The community centre and its new WHOMP newsletter also are doing a fantastic job in connecting the community together – great work!
By Todd Muller
MP for Bay of Plenty
