Wellington St on-ramp to re-open

News that Auckland's Wellington Street on-ramp is re-opening is being welcomed by commuters.

The on-ramp was closed in May last year, while the Victoria Park Tunnel was built, and since then, the barriers have remained up.

Pressure from hundreds of submissions have helped NZTA to the decision that the on-ramp will re-open in six weeks.

North Shore commuter and re-open campaigner Lucy Walker says the closure has been very inconvenient.

"People have had to go a very long way round, and particularly when is bad, it can add up to 20 minutes half an hour onto someone's journey."

Ms Walker says it's been a long time coming, but it's great news.

Acting state highways manager for Auckland, Steve Mutton, says they know it's a popular ramp, so will have measures in place to make sure traffic flows well.

"During that peak afternoon we will be using ramp ceilings to ensure the motorway operates efficiently and safely for all the drivers using it."

Mr Mutton says there might be delays in the first few days of the ramp being re-opened, as motorists get used to it again.

But Mr Mutton, says the on-ramp will go back to how it used to be.

"So we're looking at opening the onramp for traffic towards the end of next month after completion of work is required to ensure it is safe to use. This will include final pavement and installation of the ramp signals."

Mr Mutton says they're grateful for the patience Aucklanders have shown while it's been closed.

Photo: NZ Herald