An application for two major roading projects in Christchurch has been referred to an independent board of inquiry.
The New Zealand Transport Agency has applied to extend the Christchurch Southern Motorway and upgrade part of Main South Road on State Highway 1 to four lanes.
The proposal is part of the Southern Corridor of the Christchurch Motorways Roads of National Significance.
Environment Minister Amy Adams says the Environmental Protection Authority recommended referral of the application to a board of inquiry.
She says the application has wide public interest and would involve the significant use of physical and natural resources.
A report is expected from the inquiry in nine months.
