When was the Government first advised that the existing Wellington linkspan and approach structure could not be reused, and on what date, if any, was that advice provided to shareholding Ministers?

Answer

It was known at the time Cabinet set course for a maximum reuse, minimum viable option to save the taxpayer $2.3 billion that the Wellington linkspan might require replacement. Ferry Holdings was subsequently established and promptly identified the programme would benefit from a replacement linkspan, while retaining the road bridge and majority of the road and rail yards. The maximum reuse approach is predominantly in the yards, and the wharf in Wellington as has been explained a number of times.