Waimakariri MP Matt Doocey says residents are asking him to continue the fight for a Woodend Bypass.

“I was absolutely gutted to hear the government has failed to commit to the Woodend Bypass in its transport infrastructure announcements today,” Doocey said.

“Residents are telling me that children’s and people’s lives are at stake. The anger is there and we can’t give up.”

“With the government still to announce further roading projects, we still have a chance to make our voices heard. This makes the Rally for Woodend on Sunday 9 February even more necessary and it’s important we get a large turn-out.”

Doocey said Canterbury had received a miserly share of the infrastructure spend.

“It’s staggering to think Auckland got billions yet Canterbury received $159 million ― and there’s nothing for North Canterbury. What’s fair about that?

“Woodend residents are left wondering how they are going to cross a state highway to get to schools and shops with daily vehicle movements expected to reach 20,000 this year.

“I urge all our residents in Waimakariri to come out in visible support for Woodend on Sunday 9 February at 12.30pm at Owen Stalker Park in Woodend. Bring your signs and placards. We want to be heard.”