Te ara i whiti – Lightpath opened yesterday to rave reviews and a huge turn out of people excited to experience the world’s first ever pink (officially magenta) coloured cycleway created from a transformed disused motorway off-ramp.
The day started with a dawn blessing that allowed for a contemplative walk with iwi reprepresentatives along the route to admire the new art works and take in the newly created vistas of the city as the sun came up.
Photo: 95bfm
Hon Simon Bridges with the help of super hero riders from Freemans Bay primary school offically opened Phase One that includes a new swirling Canada Street Bridge connecting to the magenta-coloured Nelson Street off-ramp that joins the cycleway that runs down the length of Nelson St to the intersection of Victoria St. Phase 2, to start early next year, will take the entire Nelson St cycleway to Quay St.
In the evening thousands gathered on foot, on skateboards and on bikes to enjoy the “first hoon” and interactive light show that runs along one side.
It was a really happy day for Auckland and wonderful to take part in the celebrations for the magic that has been created in an incredibly short time.
Nelson St off ramp before/after – City Centre Masterplan image
Since the Nelson St off ramp closed in 2005 people have looked down on spaghetti junction and imagined what could be possible to break up the endless grey motorway that dissects the city. The idea to re-purpose the off -ramp took shape in the City Centre Masterplan 2012 (CCMP). It was visualised as a NYC style Highline with an urban garden. In 2013 Matter Architects installed hundreds of bikes as part of an award winning Designday installation which raised further questions about how the off-ramp could be used.
Janette Sadik-Khan inspirational Auckland Conversation presentation in May 2014 provided the platform for a challenge to city’s leaders to get behind a “quick win” transformational pilot project. Barb Cuthbert and Max Robitzsch from Bike Auckland (then Cycle Action Auckland) were ready with just the right project – a concept for the off-ramp as a cycleway connected to K’rd (also supported and promoted by Transport Blog). Fortunately the timing was perfect with a new Regional Director at NZTA willing to make the idea a reality and Auckland Transport agreeing to get on board to tackle Nelson St to provide a business case for the off-ramp as a key connection in the city’s cycling network. The crucial funding arrived with the Government’s announcement of a $100m Urban Cycling Investment Fund in August 2014 followed by confirmation that
Photo: Phil Walter
Nelson St would be included in the programme in January 2015 (I was a member of the Urban Cycling Investment panel that recommended the programme to the Minister). Political support came from the Mayor Len Brown, Councillor Chris Darby (the Council’s political urban design champion) and of course the Waitematā Local Board! (our small financial contribution was to fund a drinking station on route)
The final part fell into place with the decision of the City Centre Advisory Board to use the targeted rate paid by central businesses to fund the WOW factor for the project. This gave Auckland Council’s urban design champion Ludo Campbell-Reid and the Auckland Design Office the opportunity to get creative and follow through on the potential identified in the CCMP to make sure Auckland ended up with something really unique.
photo: Bike Auckland
Following public feedback the concept was created by Monk Mackenzie architects and LandLAB, in association with artist Katz Maihi. Māori patterns and narrative form a core part of the designs, following discussions with iwi. The path includes etched carvings at intervals along the length, with a 6-metre pou at the entrance. The colour (by Resin Surfaces Ltd) represents the heartwood of a freshly cut totara, with the red and pink shades strengthened to contrast with the surrounding motorway lanes. It includes LED lights by Iion lighting lining the safety barriers, that can interact and pulse as people pass them, as well as a strong magenta surface colour that fades out at the northern end in a Māori design (details from the Auckland Council media release).
Waitemata Local Board funded drinking station on Nelson St
I’d like to acknowledge and thank all who played a part in the Lightpath & Nelson St cycleway project from Auckland Council, Auckland Transport, NZTA and the many contractors (including Hawkins Construction, GHD, Construction Landscapes, PFS) who worked hard up right to the opening day. Te ara i whiti is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when the stars align on a great idea and creative people are given the brief and funding to make it happen.
Penelope Carroll (Massey University) and children from central schools present on the children’s audit carried out as part of the Freyberg Square consultation
Highlights
Public Forum
Public forum at the Board’s October business meeting was one of our most interesting and thought-provoking with seven presentations covering a range of projects and issues. We are really fortunate that people in the Waitematā Local Board area are willing to take the time to engage with local government through our public forums.
Charlotte Fisher and Erwin van Asbeck bring along the litter collected from a Herne Bay beach to highlight local stormwater, sewage and pollution issues.
Friends of St Davids, Grey Lynn Surrey Crescent shopsworking group, Hauora Gardens at Studio One, Brian McClure a local business landlord and the Grey Lynn pump track society also presented at the public forum.
Presentations that were tabled are available on the Council website.
Berm planting
Auckland Transport has done a great job sparking interest in berm planting! Local Board feedback on Auckland Transport’s draft berm planting guidelines was made available in October (our feedback was attached to the October agenda) leading to media coverage extending all the way to the BBC and a NZ gardener petition.
Disappointingly Auckland Transport incorrectly claimed in the media that the draft had been provided to local boards in confidence. Throughout the development of the draft guidelines AT has shown a lack of understanding of Local Board’s placemaking role and processes.
Photo Credit: Nick Young
Ponsonby Road feeder lane
Ponsonby Road safety improvements
A new feeder lane and advance stop boxes (“fresh Kermit) have been installed on Ponsonby Road as part of Auckland Transport’s resurfacing project.
Report back: Future of Cycling symposium: Challenges and Possibilities
I attended the Future of Cycling symposium hosted by the University of Waikato and Cycling New Zealand at the Avantidrome in Cambridge on 2 October 2015.
The symposium was a first for bringing together academics, sports administrators, cycle advocates and representatives from transport agencies to discuss a range of cycling related issues and opportunities.
The symposium was opened by Andrew Matheson, CEO of Cycling NZ. He shared some interested statistics from research Cycling NZ has carried out:
– 23% of adults get on a bike at least once a year
– Half have high engagement with cycling
– High engagement riders are estimated to save our health economy $1 billion per year
I was particularly interested in presentations about safety and making cycling an everyday transport option. For example from a report back from the Cycle Safety conference in Germany we heard about new bike technology to make cycling safer for older people (in Holland cycling injuries and fatalities are very low by international standards but older people make up the largest and growing group of victims). It was recommended that rather than follow the lead of Europe we need to find our own safety solutions to meet them in the future.
Gerry Dance from NZTA reported that we are now “riding with a political tailwind” due to the increase in cycling investment from the government.
I attended the symposium with members Christopher Dempsey and Rob Thomas. Registration of $80 was paid from the Board’s professional development budget.
October events and functions
In addition to Local Board workshops and meetings I attended:
Cycling symposium in Cambridge on 2 October
Pecha Kucha Maritime edition at the Voyager Museum 8 October
Art Week opening at Silo 6 on 9 October
Auckland Refugees Council AGM on 10 October at the Grey Lynn Community Centre
Kelmarna Spring Festival on 11 October
Ponsonby Business Association Board meeting on 14 October
Introduction to Local Board members by the new Panuku Development Agency
At the Beach NZ Fashion Museum launch at Voyager Museum on 15 October
Spring Fling in the Myers Park underpass on 16 October
Diwali Festival opening ceremony in Aotea Square on 17 October
Grey Lynn Farmers Market AGM on 18 October (I have now resigned from the Grey Lynn Farmers Market management committee after 5 years as Chair )
Bikes vs Cars documentary screening on 18 October
Ports of Auckland community reference group meeting
Presentation by the world homeless expert Dr Sam Tsemberis, Pathways to Housing, NYC at Merge Café hosted by Lifewise on 20 October
Opening of the Screenies International children’s film festival at TAPAC on 22 October
Inner city network meeting to discuss neighbours day 2016 preparations
Ponsonby Business Association AGM on 27 October
The Lesson opening night at Basement Theatre on 27 October
Franklin Road community liaison group meeting on 28 October (to discuss the latest options for the upgrade of Franklin Road)
Launch of At the Beach, NZ Fashion Museum exhibition at the Voyager Museum
Waitematāhas become the first Local Board to launch a community low carbon action plan. The plan came out of community concern about the lack of action on climate change that led to the Board in 2011 committing to develop a localised plan for reducing emissions that will focus on reducing energy use, sustainable transport options, waste reduction, local food production and more effective and cooperative use of resources and land.
On Wednesday 4 November the plan and a Low Carbon Community Network was launched by the Board at the Auckland Museum. The network is intended as a loose collaboration of all
those interested in climate change and forging a low carbon community. The Board aims to make the most of sharing the considerable ideas, news and events which make up our collective local knowledge.
At the launch the Museum’s Director of Corporate Servicecs Les Fleming described the huge success they have had in reducing their carbon footprint and took attendees on the roof to see the solar array which is contributing to their effort.
Waitematā is the first local board to create a localised carbon reduction plan which supports the region’s 10 year Energy Resilience and Low Carbon Action Plan.
Becoming a Low Carbon Community: An Action Plan, will be officially launched at the Auckland War Memorial Museum on November 4, 2015. The venue was chosen because it showcases energy resilient practices that are beneficial for both an organisation and the environment. Guest speaker Roy Clare, Director of the Museum, will talk about the museum’s initiatives and invite guests to a tour of the building’s roof-top solar panels.
The Low Carbon Action Plan provides a guide on how, from a local level, greenhouse emissions can be reduced through efficient energy use in both new and older buildings, smart reuse of waste products, sustainable transport options, local food production and through enhancing tree coverage.
“This plan is a positive step towards the region’s transformation to an energy-resilient low carbon city” says Deborah Yates, Waitematā Local Board member leading this project.
“We will also be launching a Low Carbon Community Network, which will bring together organisations, businesses, individuals and council staff to share their knowledge and work together on making better use of energy and reducing carbon.”
Rob Thomas, local board member who contributed to the plan, believes that “now more than ever there is a concerted global urgency to support communities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and curb the rise in global temperatures,” and that “more New Zealand communities need to take up the challenge.”
Waitematā Local Board Chair Shale Chambers describes Waitematā as “an environmentally astute community, many businesses and schools already have practices in place that are low carbon effective. This plan aims to encourage such activities and support those who would like to do more.
“The whole community needs to get behind making the changes needed to transform Auckland and reach the target of 40 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. It also aligns with Council’s empowered communities’ strategy.”
A copy of the Low Carbon Action Plan can be downloaded from the Auckland Council website here, printed copies can be collected from the Waitematā Local Board Graham Street office.
City Vision media release: Auckland Energy Consumer Trust Election
Date: 23 October 2015
Following complaints to the Electoral Officer overseeing the Auckland Energy Consumer Trust election the right-wing C&R ticket have refused to remove or modify misleading electoral signage.
“For the third AECT election in a row C&R have made misleading statements regarding the payment of the AECT dividend. A slash on election billboards stating $345 =C&R is contrary to the Local Electoral Act and a breach of the principles under which the AECT election is conducted” said City Vision chair, Robert Gallagher
In August 2015 Trust beneficiaries (people on the power account in the AECT district) received a dividend of $345 from the Trust. The AECT dividend is a direct result of the Trust’s 75.4% shareholding in Vector.
“I’ve written to Earl White, C&R Campaign Chair requesting the removal or modification of the slashes. I am disappointed but not surprised that C&R have responded refusing to take action and are ignoring the electoral officer’s guidance on the matter”.
“It is a serious issue to ignore a request from an electoral officer. It demonstrates the arrogance of the C&R current AECT trustees who are willing to ignore established election principles to maintain control of the Trust.” Says Mr Gallagher
The AECT election is conducted under its own Deed of Trust. Under the Deed of Trust the returning officer is responsible for conducting the election and to the extent that the Deed of Trust Rules do not prescribe a particular matter, the returning officer is entitled to determine the procedure accordingly.
The AECT candidate booklet states that “the Local Electoral Act 2001 is adopted for the purposes of this election. No candidate should act in a way which would amount to an offence if the election were being held under that Act”.
S125 of the Local Electoral Act states:
(1) Every person commits the offence of bribery who, directly or indirectly, on thatperson’s own or by another person,-
(a) gives, lends, agrees to give or lend, offers, promises, or promises to obtain any money or valuable consideration to or for any elector, or to or for any person on behalf of any elector, or to or for any other person, in order to induce any elector to vote or refrain from voting.
The Electoral Officer, Mr Dale Ofsoske has advised, following a complaint from City Vision Councillor Cathy Casey, that he considers the statement on the slash placed on C & R billboards – “$345 = Vote C & R” (refer attached photo) does not give any text to the $345 figure and in particular does not state what that payment is for or when it would be paid. It could be misinterpreted, especially by electors who are unfamiliar with the dividend issue. Mr Ofsoske has confirmed he has written to C&R in relation to the slash statement.
City Vision is supporting a ticket of 5 candidates: Anne-Marie Coury, Jeanette Elley, Simon Mitchell, Kirk Serpes and Judith Tizard
Six years ago I stood for public office for the first time. I put myself forward naively thinking it was an election of the most suitable candidates to be trustees of the Auckland Energy Consumer Trust (AECT) . I had no idea of the extremely long odds on any other candidate besides the incumbents having any chance of getting elected. The incumbents rely on low voter turnout, no media coverage and a dividend “bribe” to ensure they are returned as trustees. I wrote about my experience at the time .
The 2015 AECT election has just started with voting papers arriving in mailboxes from Friday 16 October. Postal voting continues until 30 October (postal votes need to be in the mail by 26 October to be sure of arriving)
AECT district
Predictably the incumbent C&R team are taking exactly the same approach to the 2006 and 2009 elections – relying on the same bribe* blatantly splashed on their hoardings, voter apathy and a media blackout – but then why wouldn’t they accept this election gift. By chipping approx $10,000 each in to an election fund used to direct mail 25,000 voters the C&R team are pretty much guaranteed to be re-elected. They then get to share an annual pot of trustee fees of $342,500 to share between them, as well as a couple of directorships on the board of the trust’s only asset, its 75 per cent stake in power company Vector Ltd.
However this election I really do hope the outcome will be different. City Vision is backing a forward thinking, talented team – Anne-Marie Coury,
City Vision team for AECT
Jeanette Elley, Simon Mitchell, Kirk Serpes and Judith Tizard. A team that stands for protecting community ownership and the dividend, and future proofing the electricity network for smart clean technology . They have the potential to bring much needed new thinking and diversity to AECT.
But the only way to get new people on to the trust and to put an end to C&R’s election rort is if we all encourage everyone we know who lives within the AECT district to check the mail box and to return the ballot papers on time.
* According to the AECT candidate handbook relevant election offences as contained in the Local Electoral Act 2001, and adopted for the
purposes of this election include S125 Bribery
(1) Every person commits the offence of bribery who, directly or indirectly, on that person’s own or by another person,- (a) gives, lends, agrees to give or lend, offers, promises, or promises to obtain any money or valuable consideration to or for any elector, or to or for any person on behalf of any elector, or to or for any other person, in order to induce any elector to vote or refrain from voting
How the Local Electoral Act applies to the AECT election as advised by the Electoral Officer
The AECT election is not conducted under the Local Electoral Act 2001 (as are council elections for example) but under their own Deed of Trust. Under the Deed of Trust the returning officer is responsible for conducting the election and to the extent that the Deed of Trust Rules do not prescribe a particular matter, the returning officer is entitled to determine the procedure accordingly. Section 125 of the Local Electoral Act is therefore not directly applicable, however behaviour amounting to an offence under that Act could also be of concern to me in conducting the AECT election.
[Update: Consultation on the proposals started on 16 November and is open until Monday 7 December 2015. Feedback can be given via the online form.]
Over 2 years ago Auckland Transport came to the Waitematā Local Board with a proposal to make safety improvements to the intersection of Angelsea St and Ponsonby Road. We supported the need to make it safer to cross but we rejected the engineer’s design as it failed to prioritise pedestrians (the proposed pram ramps off- set down Angelsea St would have made it impossible to walk straight along Ponsonby Rd). The proposed layout also did nothing to improve the street amenity and wasn’t consistent with the Ponsonby Rd Plan.
The Board (transport portfolio – myself and Christopher Dempsey -and Board Chair Shale Chambers) insisted on a design that provided a “continuous pedestrian experience” and that would be a best practice template for all the residential side streets off Ponsonby Road. Auckland Transport responded several times saying it couldn’t be done for “safety reasons” (in effect “the computer said no”!). Each time we pushed back – even though we are not traffic engineers we knew it was possible because we could see it happening all over the city and overseas with great results for all road users.
Example of a “raised table” Chapel St, Melbourne
Fortunately there are people in Auckland Transport who were willing to challenge traditional traffic engineer solutions and push for a design that finally met the Board’s criteria (and responded to community pressure including a recent petition calling for greater safety on Ponsonby Rd). New and greatly improved proposals were presented at our monthly board meeting on 13 October 2015 together with a concept design for the section of MacKelvie Street just off Ponsonby Rd that has been transformed recently into a boutique shopping area but without any changes to the street environment.
Following an earlier resolution confirming support and budget for the “Ponsonby Road Pedestrian Experience Project” the Waitematā Local Board approvedthe revised scope and additional total budget of $242,000 ($114,000 for Mackelvie St and $128,900 for the Ponsonby Road raised entry treatments) from the Local Board Transport Capital Fund for the Ponsonby Road Improvements Project (taking the total project budget to $703,000) to include Mackelvie Street and Posonby Road raised entry treatments.
MacKelvie St concept design
Surprisingly for a pedestrian focused project the concept design allows for 14 additional car parks resulting from the changes to the layout of side streets and on Ponsonby Road (there are also improvements to bus stops, crossing points and opportunities for new bike parking, seating and trees)
Auckland Transport is now moving to detailed design and public consultation (likely to start on 13 November). If all goes to plan residents & visitors to Ponsonby Road will be able to enjoy a safer and more pleasant walking experience by July 2016.
Note the concept designs are draft only and that they may change prior to release of the designs for public consultation.
I have previously reported on the recommendations the transport portfolio has made for locations to be included in Auckland Transport’s footpath work programme 15/16 including footpaths requiring maintenance.
In August Christopher Dempsey and I went on a site visit with Auckland Transport’s head of maintenance to ascertain what works can be leveraged from the renewal budget to deliver local board priorities. We followed up by outlining what we would like AT to focus on:
Cheshire Street, Parnell
Accessible access to Parnell Station
As we noted there are a number of missing and narrow footpaths in the area between Parnell Rd and the entrance to the new station on Cheshire St. Restoring all of these footpaths is clearly a big job.
In the meantime we would like to know what AT is doing to ensure that there is at least one accessible route available when the station opens. I.e. a route that is well signposted and suitable for wheel chair users, mobility scooters, prams, people wheeling luggage etc from Parnell Road to the station. This needs to be a priority as it is impossible to walk to the entrance currently without walking on the road.
Update: to be investigated and potentially funded from the Local board capex fund
Cook St pedestrian crossing
Cook Street
We are concerned about the lack of a pedestrian facility to cater for the growing number of residents on Union St who will have a strong desire line to cross over Cook St to access Victoria Park, New World, Sale St etc.
Pedestrians currently have to cross three lanes of high speed traffic or walk 400m up to the Nelson St intersection for a safe crossing
Princes St
We heard that Princes St is on the renewal list and a project team is being set up to address the many complex issues of upgrading one of Auckland’s historic roads. We asked to be kept close to this work and the project include the entire length of Princes St to the Emily Place intersection and for cycling facilities to be scoped as part of the design (this also needs to be tied into the cycling contra-flow on Alfred St that we have had logged with AT for some time now but has not been actioned)
AT update: The upgrade does not include the Emily place intersection (the transport portfolio has logged this separately)
Winchester St access to K’rd
Walkway signage
We noted a number of locations without walkway signage but where NO EXIT signs incorrectly give the impression there is no pedestrian access:
Liverpool St towards K’rd
Liverpool St steps to Airedale St
Hargreaves St to Beaumont St
Gudgeon St to Beaumont Quarter (
Winchester St to K’rd – this connection has been newly discovered and has recently been demarcated by the adjoining land owner. There is a good opportunity to provide a pleasant walking route from Newton Rd to K’rd via Edinburgh St (photo right)
City Road between Liverpool St and Symonds St and Liverpool St between City Road and K’rd
City Road
After learning that City Road is on the 15/16 renewal programme we have confirmed that we would like to ensure that the 1m footpaths are not replaced on a like for like basis as this is no longer best practice in a high foot traffic location (even on a rainy afternoon we observed more people walking through the area than driving). See photo right.
This is a good opportunity for AT to assess the traffic movements and look at how the footpaths can best be widened (eg narrowing the lanes; restricting rat running traffic; contra flow for cyclists etc)
AT update: AT has confirmed investigating footpath widening options with AT’s walking and cycling team
Howe St/Hopetoun St/Hereford St
Thank you for agreeing to look at the Hopetoun St/Howe St intersection where the footpath on the bridge abruptly ends without a crossing point.
We also noted that 1000 new residents are moving into the Hopetoun St area and improvements are needed to cater for the increased foot traffic. (For example Can the Hereford St/Hopetoun St intersection please be logged as needing a pedestrian facility)
AT update:AT now plan to implement this when the Hopetoun St Kerb &Channel/footpath renewal between Howe St and Ponsonby Rd is completed during the 16/17 financial year.
Marmion St, City Centre
Real Groovy development – Marmion St, White St, Waverley St
We agreed that any renewals planned for 15/16 should be put on hold in this area until the Real Groovy apartment development has been completed and an assessment can be made of pedestrian movements (we noted the lack of pedestrian facilities currently particularly on Marmion St )
Christopher is going to check the resource consent conditions and what street scape changes are planned as part of the design.
AT update:All programmed kerb & channel/footpath and resurfacing renewal work deferred from the following sites to allow coordination with the private development: Liverpool St, Turner St, White St, Marmion St and Waverly St
Mayoral Drive/Albert St entrances to the Aotea Centre and Bledisloe Carparks/ access to the bus stop
We noted the lack of pedestrian facilities in this area particularly to the bus stop from the Bledisloe Car park and across the car park entrances.
We have yet to receive an update from AT on what is planned as part of the CRL works to cater for bus passengers at this location.
Hargreaves St, Freemans Bay
Hargreaves St
We noted the large number of drivers who are parking on the substandard footpath.
Agreed Christopher to check development plans in this area before any action taken.
Auckland Transport has been promising to draft grass verge (berm) planting guidelines for some time. The guidelines are needed because there is a lot of interest from people who would like to make use of the berms outside their homes for more than just grass. Private plantings have the potential to benefit neighbourhood streets but can also cause issues. Unfortunately the first draft of the guidelines prepared by Auckland Transport and shared with Local boards for comment are unworkable.
Here is the Waitematā Local Board feedback available on the board’s October agenda explaining exactly why AT needs to start again with the guidelines.
Feedback on Auckland Transport- Draft Guidelines for Private Planting in the Road Corridor
Background
On 9 December 2014 the Waitematā Local Board passed the following resolution (Resolution number WTM/2014/243):
b) That the Waitematā Local Board
Supports encouraging and enabling community use of berms as much as practicable
Supports the development of berm-planting guidelines, which would include:
Benefits of appropriate berm planting
Safe depths to dig to
Ideal plants in a number of categories – natives, food, tree
Maintenance expectations, including in regard to safety e.g. height
Role of Local Boards in acting as a key conduit for Auckland Transport to have community relationships around berm planting
Working with neighbours
3. Requests Auckland Transport to develop berm planting guidelines in conjunction with Local Boards
Requests Auckland Transport report on progress to the Board’s February 2015 meeting.
Auckland Transport has now prepared a draft approach to berm planting “Guidelines for Private Planting in the Road Corridor” (the guidelines). The guidelines have been considered by the Auckland Transport Board’s Customer Focus Committee and has been approved for consultation with Local Boards.
Under the draft guidelines, Auckland Transport (AT) proposes to allow some private planting in the road corridor, as a permitted activity, where it meets certain specifications. Plantings can only be undertaken by the adjoining landowner on the “back berm” immediately adjacent to their property (and only to a height of 600mm). Low-level planting (defined as under 300 mm in height) may be undertaken between adjacent vehicle crossings or around mail boxes and street trees providing it does not encroach onto the footpath and does not exceed a total area of 2m².
Applications for approval will need to be made for planting that does not comply with the guidelines, and this will be considered on a case by case basis at the discretion of AT. An application fee of $150 (including GST) will be payable to Auckland Transport to cover the cost of assessing the application and, where appropriate, issuing the approval to plant in the road corridor. If the application is declined it is proposed the fee will be refunded.
Under the draft guidelines, local boards:
will be asked to confirm that applications for approval of proposed plantings are consistent with the existing streetscape environment and their placemaking aspirations for the specific area. If the local board does not agree, the application will be declined
will have the opportunity to rectify situations where non-complying planting is proposed to be removed by AT.
The draft guidelines explain potential problems with private planting, including:
the encroachment of footpaths and impeding pedestrians, particularly those who are visually impaired or use wheelchairs
adversely affecting the visibility of pedestrians or street signs or sight lines at intersections and driveways
causing challenges for utility operators when maintaining or installing infrastructure – both in terms of providing notice to affected landowners and root damage
different landowners and residents having conflicting views on appropriate planting
landowners losing interest or changes of ownership can mean plantings are not maintained
fruit trees can encourage vermin (when the fruit falls).
A workshop with the Waitematā Local Board to discuss the berm planting guidelines was held on 1 September 2015. AT requested feedback on its draft guidelines by 30 September.
On 8 September the Waitemata Local Board delegated feedback on the draft guidelines to Transport portfolio holders Pippa Coom and Christopher Dempsey and member Greg Moyle (Resolution number WTM/2015/132).
Feedback
The Waitematā Local Board joins a number of other local boards in expressing concern that the response by Auckland Transport to community interest in berm planting has been based on an excessively restrictive rather than an enabling and empowering approach.
The information presented by AT does not recognise the significant benefits of berm planting, which have repeatedly been pointed out by local boards to AT and also through the Community-led Placemaking Champions group.
People wish to undertake berm planting to enhance the amenity of their neighbourhood, connect with neighbours, create bee-friendly environments, grow and share food. Allowing, rather than restricting, these aspects of berm planting should be central to this policy and its practical implementation.
The Board is opposed to the licensing framework proposed in the draft guidelines, which creates a barrier to people’s sense of connection to their local streets and fails to recognise that, despite Council being the legal owner of the berms, the responsibility of maintaining grass berms adjacent to properties now rests with the owners or occupiers (with some exceptions).
The board seeks to take a more enabling community approach where use of the berm is supported as much as is practically possible.
Currently there is a very limited scope in terms of permitted activities. For example private planting is only allowed on “back berms” and must be small inedible plants. This is far too restrictive a measure. It is in complete opposition to the view of the board, which seeks to promote the use of public open space for appropriate activities such as creating bee-friendly corridors. A large portion of existing berm plantings would likely require licenses or not be permitted under the proposal, despite no evidence to date of any harm or problems as a result of those plantings.
In older parts of Auckland like the Waitematā area very few properties have “back berms” further limiting what is permitted, even with approval, under the guidelines.
The board supports a more effects-based approach, which seeks to avoid or mitigate the adverse effect of private planting in the berm. Some of the potential hazards are included in the draft document e.g. noxious weeds, potential missiles/impalement hazards and impairment of sightlines. The effects of edible plants and trees could be described in terms of their potential tripping hazard from fruit drop and root intrusion (and the need to ensure soil is not contaminated outlined). These effects can then be avoided or mitigated with measures such as root barriers when needed and a commitment to keep the footpath clear of organic debris.
Auckland Transport could support communities with the above approach by encouraging utility agencies to make asset maps available so people can determine the proximity of services in their berms. If it is not possible to undertake this comprehensively, then it would be advisable to do this work whenever a berm is dug up by utility agencies, so that we can progressively build up maps over time.
If Auckland Transport decides to continue with this licencing regime, the board requests a change in emphasis. A higher threshold for licensing would minimise the barrier to people’s engagement with public open space and recognise that, with the end of berm mowing by Auckland Transport, many residents feel a sense of ownership over berms adjacent to their own property and other properties in their neighbourhood. If there is to be a licencing approach then that should apply to a small minority of the total number of berm plantings, and in exceptional circumstances, rather than being the default.
Only in exceptional circumstances should the consent of landowners either side of the “subject property” be required as part of an application process.
Further if a licensing fee is imposed, even at a higher threshold, the board considers $150 licence application cost far too high. By applying for a licence the applicant is showing commitment to compliance, so it is unreasonable to put a financial barrier in the way.
The draft guidelines do not outline how Auckland Transport proposes to deal with berm planting that currently don’t meet the guidelines. For example is AT proposing to accept retrospective applications? The attached photos show a sample of berm planting in the Waitematā area that would be considered non-compliant under the draft guidelines even though these plantings enhance and support placemaking. There is a high risk of AT creating unnecessary neighbourhood conflict and administrative costs if the draft guidelines are implemented.
While the board recognises the role of berms in allowing access to services, it considers that utility agencies should notify neighbours if private planting is to be removed. This could be as simple as dropping a flyer in the letterbox to notify the adjoining resident, which is not a burden on the agency and should be encouraged as good practice in general.
As local boards have decision-making responsibility for local place-shaping activities the role suggested for local boards in the guidelines is not appropriate. Local boards should be in a policy role as governors instead of signing off – on individual disputes. Auckland Transport has the ability to delegate not only decision-making but policy development on this issue to local boards and it is disappointing AT has chosen not to do so in this case.
If a licensing regime is implemented Local Boards should be advised of all licencing applications, not just those that were recommended for approval by Auckland Transport. The guidelines need to outline the process local boards will have to undertake when confirming applications or rectifying situations of non-complying planting.
The board also notes, with disappointment, that neither Local Board Services nor Auckland Council’s operation division have been involved in development of this response from AT, despite the proposed regime impacting on both these parts of Council.
Summary
The Waitematā Local Board supports the provision of guidelines for berm planting but considers that these should take an empowering communities approach where use of the berm is supported as much as is practically possible.
Requests that Auckland Transport re-write the guidelines in conjunction with Local Board Services and that the guidelines include:
details about why berm planting is encouraged and supported
sets out an empowering and enabling criteria
clarifies the local board role
identifies how to mitigate potential hazards and maintenance expectations
tips on working with neighbours to achieve the best outcomes for the community from private plantings in the road corridor
This report covers my Waitematā Local Board activities from 17 August – 30 September 2015 as Deputy Chair, lead for the Community and Transport portfolios, and Chair of the Grants Committee, and with positions on the Ponsonby Business Association Board and Ponsonby Community Centre Committee and Board liaison for the Parnell Community Centre.
Highlights
Beach Rd stage 2 opening
Tole Reserve playground opening following a recent upgrade
Festival Italiano kicked off the first major festival of spring on a beautiful day in Newmarket
Portfolio updates: Transport
Beach Rd Stage 2 opening
Beach Road stage 2
I was delighted to join the celebrations for the opening of Beach Road stage 2 especially as the Board (through our Chair Shale Chambers) played a role in securing the funding for the project to get underway. The opening brought together the Mayor, NZTA regional director, Hon Nikki Kaye, Kaumatua Matt Maihi (on what was also the 175th anniversary of Ngati Whatua’s signing over of land to the Crown, which officially began the process of creating Auckland city), local politicians and the many people from across multiple organisations who are all committed to Auckland being a great place to cycle.
The design adds to the city centre’s growing network of cycleways and
Walkers on the Beach Rd cycleway
provides attractive street amenity to the soulless apartment frontages on Beach Road.
Unfortunately there are already concerns about the design of the separated pathways for cycling and walking. The layout and signage is confusing so that both pathways have become “shared” by default putting more vulnerable walkers in conflict with riders.
We hope to see Auckland Transport address these issues as well as improving the connections from Beach Road to Britomart and Fort St (a cycle crossing phase has been requested on the intersection of Customs, Britomart Pl and Beach Rd).
Update on the footpath programme: Making Auckland’s footpaths safer, easier to navigate and more convenient
In August Christopher and I went on a site visit with Auckland Transport’s maintenance team leader to ascertain what works can be leveraged from the renewal budget to deliver local board priorities. Attachment B outlines the actions we logged with Auckland Transport for follow up.
Ponsonby Rd safety
Following concerns regarding the safety of people on bikes using Ponsonby Rd (highlighted by a painful and concerning account of a “dooring” on the Cycle Action Auckland website) I have provided the following update on what the transport portfolio is doing regarding education, enforcement and short term fixes:
For some time now we have been asking AT to work with the Police to enforce the speed limit (frustratingly no sign of this happening on any of our city centre streets)
We have requested safety campaigns aimed at drivers – passing rules, driveway rules etc (we have raised concerns about AT’s campaigns aimed at vulnerable road users and the lack of evidence that these campaigns work eg “Pay attention or pay the price” type messages)
We advocated for the recent resealing of Ponsonby Rd to be used as an opportunity to include new “greening” for cyclists at the intersections (unfortunately AT have recently confirmed that despite earlier assurances the feeder lanes to new advance stop boxes at the Franklin Rd intersection are not going ahead)
We have requested a barnes dance at the intersection with Richmond Rd
We have a “Ponsonby Rd pedestrian experience project” underway funded with approx. $500k from the Local board transport capex fund. This is aimed at providing improvements (raised tables) to all the side streets between Franklin Rd and McKelvie St (this project is not directly delivering cycle infrastructure but it will assist with calming the traffic)
We’ve supported residential parking zones being rolled out in Freemans Bay and Ponsonby which will release short term parking for visitors and take the pressure off Ponsonby Road as the main parking area
We’ve asked for data to be collected on how people are currently travelling to Ponsonby Rd and the % of through traffic v local traffic to assist with future planning
Since the latest dooring that CAA alerted us to recently we’ve asked AT to provide data on crashes involving cyclists on Ponsonby Rd and an update on how AT is going to respond with a specific campaign.
Longer term the board has committed to a solution under Outcome 3 of the Ponsonby Plan (“Pedestrian and Cyclist safety- develop Ponsonby Road with various transport options that prioritise the safety of pedestrians and cyclists”)
We are looking to AT to confirm how quickly the investigation of cyclelanes can be investigated given that Ponsonby Road is not currently in AT’s 3 year work programme. Personally I think the best time to start will be after we have effective parking management in place (residential parking zones) and once the connections at either end on K’rd and Great North Road and to Westhaven have been installed.
Best practice in walking
Jim Walker, the founder of the Walk21 conferences and global expert in walking, gave a lunchtime presentation hosted by the NZ Institute of Architects and Auckland Transport. Jim talked about the importance of walking, promoting the formula for effective investment in walking; showcasing examples of best practice internationally.
Key messages:
Walkability the best indicator of a liveable city
By far the biggest percentage of trips are under 5km (63%) but most resources are allocated to trips over 30km which are only 7% of all trips
Need to make walking visible with data. For example when trips were measured in Sydney’s CBD 92% were found to be walking trips with 50% of each trip made up of waiting time (it would Sales revenues increase after pedestrianisation (in a Munich example up to 40%)
People walking to town centres are found to spend more per week than drivers
It is safer for everyone in cities where people walk and cycle
In the UK it is estimated that for every pound spent on walking 7 pounds are saved in health costs
In making observations about Auckland Jim recommended:
making walking as appealing and enjoyable as possible
deliver streets that are safer, easier to navigate and more comfortable
promote walking as the first choice for every day short trips
This presentation confirmed for me the need for Auckland focused trip data (at the moment most of the data is derived from pedestrian counts and census journey to work data) and more NZ based evidence about the benefits of investing in walking (refer Attachment C for a Grey Lynn example).
High Street parking issues
Consultation on the upgrade Ellen Melville and Pioneer Womens Hall and Freyberg Square (with the proposed removal of the road in front of the hall) has highlighted a number of current High St parking issues that could be addressed before the project goes ahead.
The city centre team, who are project managing the upgrade, have been asked to investigate the following with Auckland Transport:
Removal of the High St exit from the Victoria St carpark
Change to light phases at the High St /Victoria St intersection to speed up access from the Victoria St car park
Re-configuration of the Victoria St car park to better provide for short term parking (ie moving long term parking from the lower levels)
Management of the number of trade vehicles on High St to free up short term on -street car parking (through permits and encouraging tradies to use the car park)
Promoting Victoria St car park as the “pop in” short term parking for visitors to High St/O’Connell St/Vulcan Lane precinct (ie changing perceptions that it is difficult to access the shopping area)
Undertake a parking survey on High St to confirm current vacancy/occupancy rates and make the data publicly available and for Heart of the City to share with members
Depending on the results of the parking survey discuss with AT the tools available to increase availability and turn over
Portfolio updates: Community
Age – Friendly Cities Forum
I attended the ADCOSS organised Age- Friendly cities forum on 27 August. This was an opportunity to hear from a wider range of speakers about how an age-friendly city benefits people of all ages. A youth perspective was provided by members of the Waitematā Youth Collective.
Key messages for me:
We need to be designing and building age and disability friendly housing that can support existing communities not just in isolated suburbs (David Haigh, Lecturer in social practice at Unitec)
We should implement the UK’s “Shopmobility” initiative that can benefit retailers (Vivian Naylor, CCS disability Action)
We need to be including dementia-friendly perspectives in our design (Karen Smith, Clinical Research nurse at Auckland University’s Centre for brain research)
Connectedness is the most important factor for enhancing well-being. Strong, cohesive communities are the best thing for people’s health and psychological sense of control (Prof. John Raeburn)
Smokefree Auckland 2025
The board has supported the bringing forward of the review of Council’s Smokefree Policy and the earlier implementation of the planned stage 3 including extending smokefree areas to beaches, shared spaces and outside dining.
Following a meeting with Auckland Cancer Society we have also confirmed our commitment to promote our current smokefree events and facilities and ensure phase 1 has been fully implemented (covering signage and smokefree bus stops).
I also attended the Auckland Cancer society’s smokefree outside areas forum where I heard that there is increasing evidence of the public’s approval to extend smokefree areas to all public places such as beaches and outside dining. There is evidence that smokefree outdoor areas help to limit exposure to smoking and decrease the chances of former smokers relapsing. Outdoor policies also help people quit.
Investigations are underway on whether it is preferable to adopt a regulatory rather than non-regulatory approach (as is currently taken in the smokefree policy). In Ontario there is very effective use of signs and very little enforcement.
We are at a similar point to when indoor venues went smokefree – business ended up having nothing to fear and it was also good for hospitality workers.
Community Grants
The Waitematā Local Board grants committee that I chair considered the applications for round one 2015/16. For the first time we have a “Quick Response Grants” process for applications up to $3000 and Local Grants for applications up to $7500. In total $280,920.46 was requested from round one from our total community grants fund of $100,000. This massive over subscription was partly due to the demise of the Community Group Assistance Fund and Accommodation Support Fund benefitting boards in the old Auckland City Council area. These funds have been distributed between all 21 local boards unfortunately leaving a large funding shortfall for organisations based in the Waitematā area.
Think Big mural project at Richmond Rd School
The round one decisions and recommendations of the committee are attached to the agenda.
Photo right: students from Richmond Road School with their ‘Think Big’ project ‘The Colour Project’ certificates presented by member Deborah Yates at the school assembly on behalf of the Board
Further meetings and activities relevant to the community portfolio are detailed below
Workshops and meetings
From 17 August – 30 September 2015 I attended:
Local Boards greenways collaborative meeting on 17 August
Auckland Transports’ public meeting on 17 August to present Grey Lynn transport project proposals
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 18 August including meeting with Auckland Museum representatives
Waitematā Youth Collective introductory meeting on 18 August
Meeting with Auckland Cancer Society to discuss the progress on the regional Smoke free policy and the upcoming review that is planned for later this year
Lunchtime Learning: The housing we’d choose: A study of housing preferences, choices and trade-offs in Auckland.
Meeting with GM Ponsonby Business Association 21 August
Elected member professional development working group meeting 24 August
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 25 August
Newmarket Laneways working group
Grey Lynn park pump track presentation
Pre-view of the proposed Nelson St Off-ramp Cycleway – amenity lighting on 25 August
Community Development portfolio monthly update on 26 August
ADCOSS age friendly cities forum at Western Springs Hall on 27 August
Meeting to discuss achievements report photos on 27 August
Jim Walker – founder of Walk21: International best practice in walking seminar on 28 August
Ponsonby Community Centre committee meeting on 31 August
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 1 September
Catch up with NBA General manager on 4 September
New footpath programme – site visit on 4 September
Attended the Seniors Advisory Panel on 7 September
Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 8 September
Ponsonby Business Association Board meeting on 9 September
Auckland Development Committee workshop on 9 September (covering SHAs, City Centre Integration Group update, Downtown Car park and the Chief Economist housing report)
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 10 September
Visit to the Auckland Central Library CAB
Meeting with Cowie St residents 14 September
Ellen Melville Centre and Freyberg Square consultation drop in
Ellen Melville Centre and Freyberg Square consultation drop- ins on 11 and 14 September (photo right)
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 15 September
Monthly Transport portfolio catch up and site visit to MacKelvie St (part of the Ponsonby Road pedestrian experience funded from the local board capex fund)
Meeting with Auckland Transport to discuss Curran St/Sarsfield St intersection proposals
Consultation meeting on 17 September for Heart of the City members to discuss Ellen Melville Centre and Freyberg Square proposals
Interview with a representative from Hay Group on 18 September (As part of their regular three-yearly job sizing exercise, the Remuneration Authority has commissioned Hay Group to meet with a cross section of elected members from Auckland Council to conduct an assessment)
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 22 September
Media and communications meeting
Community Development Portfolio meeting on 22 September
Waitemata Local Board Grants Committee meetings on 23 and 29 September
Smokefree outdoor areas forum on 23 September
Inner City Network meeting organised by ADCOSS on 24 September
Meeting on 25 September to discuss elected member professional development
Ponsonby Community Centre management committee meeting 28 September
Waitematā Local Board workshop on 29 September
Local Board greenways collaborative meeting on 30 September
Events and functions
From 16 August – 30 September 2015 I attended:
Opening of the Tole Reserve playground on 22 August
Officiated at the citizenship ceremony at the Town Hall on 24 August
Cycle Action Auckland AGM on 27 August
Richmond Road School ‘Think Big’ project ‘The Colour Project’ assembly presentation of certificates to the working group on 28 August
Ponsonby presents NZ Fashion Festival show at the invitation of PBA on 29 August
Heroes at Maidment Theatre at the invitation of ATC
Wallace Art Awards at Pah Homestead on 7 September
The Events at Q Theatre at the invitation of Silo Theatre Trust on 9 September
Grey Lynn Business Association networking drinks
Auckland Conversations on 10 September Building Bridges not walls, Gill Hicks, peace advocate
Diversity Job Fair 2015 (morning tea for invited guests) at AUT on 12 September
Ellen Melville Centre and Freyberg Square open day on Saturday 12 September
Circability Trust afternoon tea on 13 September celebrating one year at Campbell Free Kindergarten
Cats the musical at the Civic Theatre at the invitation of Regional Facilities Auckland
Aotea Quarter consultation walking tour
Aotea Quarter Framework consultation walk on 17 September (photo right)
Festival Italiano opening and lunch in Newmarket at the invitation of Dante Alighieri Society Auckland on Sunday 27 September (photo below: Osborne St open for people to enjoy the festival)
Economic benefits from transport choice and people focused planning
Increasing investment in public transport, public spaces and cycling has ignited debate across Auckland, especially in central areas, about the impact on retailers who fear losing car parking and customers. A proposed Grey Lynn transport project reported on in Ponsonby News by John Elliott over the last few months draws out many of the themes of the wider debate. It also highlights that the benefits to be realised from transport choice and people- focused planning needs to be clear if the changes coming are going to be embraced by everyone.
Earlier in the year when Auckland Transport first proposed bus safety improvements at the Grey Lynn shops resulting in the removal of car parking on Great North Rd it was not surprising that local retailers campaigned for a rethink. There were genuine practical concerns like the need for loading zones but also a perception, shared by John who enjoys driving to the shops, that currently there are “very few car parks”. The Waitematā Local Board asked Auckland Transport to bring data to the table so we could review any proposal based on facts.
A parking occupancy survey of the 214 on- street car parks surrounding the shopping area found an average 40% vacancy rate. Only 10% of spaces are used by people who park in the town centre and take the bus. Another survey found that the majority of shoppers arrive other than in a private car and that the time and money spent in the shopping area was similar for all modes of transport.
A Grey Lynn plan developed by the Grey Lynn Business Association a few years ago in consultation with the community looked to image the future design of the shopping precinct. It includes measures to slow the traffic, and provide more pedestrian links, new crossing points, and more trees. The plan is backed up by results from Auckland and overseas that pedestrian and “people-focused” improvements can boost local economic activity.
Auckland Transport now say they have taken into account the Grey Lynn plan, feedback and the surveys to come up with a much more comprehensive approach. My initial view is that new proposals connecting to other future developments like new cycleways, gateway treatments and new bus routes (as well as working with landlords to make the large amounts of off- street parking tucked behind the shops more accessible) have the potential to be positive for retailers, shoppers and the local community. However it is too soon to reach any conclusions until Auckland Transport’s consultation has been completed.
Ultimately we need to make sure it is good for business when we look after the local people who are choosing to leave the car at home as much as we do the drivers. And motorists like John need to keep feeling welcome to drive to the shops – fortunately when visiting Grey Lynn a car park is pretty much guaranteed!
I recently accompanied my mum to London to support her competing in the 10th World Brompton Championship race. I hadn’t been back in 5 years so I was also looking forward to checking out the explosion of cycling I’d been hearing about. From dispatches I was expecting London to have been transformed into a Copenhagen of the British Isles. The increase in bikes everywhere was really noticeable but I was also surprised to discover this is despite many central London streets still being very congested and hostile to riding.
Commuter cycling along the Embankment, London
Even as a confident rider the few times I ventured out on a public hire “Boris” bike in central London I found to be a scary experience. The super cycle highways currently under construction are going to make a huge difference however many historic London roads are narrow and cyclelanes are unlikely to be an option. I understand this has led to a multi -pronged approach to encourage cycling by calming streets, slowing traffic, safety campaigns and the creation of routes through quieter areas.
It confirmed for me that if London can grow cycling numbers spectacularly with huge transport challenges in a city of 8.6 million people then in Auckland we really have no excuse. I’ve heard too many times that we don’t have space for cyclelanes and that there are too many barriers to cycling (weather, hills, dangerous roads). . We only have to look at London to know most of our arterials are more than wide enough to comfortably accommodate everyone including people on bikes – we just have to refocus our priorities.
Freecycle London
But the real surprise for me on my trip was getting to take part in the Prudential Ride London Freecycle event. A day of cycling traffic- free around 10 miles of London’s most ironic streetscapes. On a glorious summer’s day we joined the estimated 70,000 of people (including many very small children) on bikes taking advantage of an “open” streets circuit and festival zones along the way.
Of course it made me wonder when we are going to have Auckland’s first genuine “freecycle” event with the roads made available just for cycling. We’ve had Playing in the Streets in 2012, Ciclovia in 2014 and Open Streets Auckland earlier this year which were lots of fun and opened streets for people to enjoy but just didn’t cater for riding on mass, on a dedicated route (there are lots of other successful examples from around the world like NYC’s Tour de Brooklyn).
The idea of an event taking advantage of a car free circuit has been floating around for a while but may now be gaining momentum with the injection of Urban Cycling Programme Funding starting to have an impact. Finally in Auckland with the opening of Grafton Gully and Beach Rd cycleways, Nelson St about to open and Quay St promised by April 2016 we can see a real network taking shape. We will soon be able to “circle the city” by bike. A freecycle type event will provide the opportunity to showcase progress in the city centre, give Aucklanders a chance to reclaim their streets and hopefully introduce many new people to cycling.
Proposed routes for “freecycle” Auckland an open streets event. Map design: Lennart Nout
Urban Planner Lennart Nout has designed a map of a possible circuit. Riders would be able to start at any point and other that the loop in the Domain cycle in either direction on the course. Festival zones could be included in places like Silo Park, Teal Park, and at the Domain.
As the traffic management for the event is likely to be very expensive it would make sense to give a major sponsor naming rights (in London the sponsor called the event “Freecycle” to fit with their brand but I don’t think this works as a name in Auckland).
The Waitemata Local Board and Auckland Museum have provided support in principle for an “open” streets mass ride event. Auckland Transport’s walking and cycling team is wondering if the time is right and whether people will show up.
I am sure that if we make it happen then the riders – especially novices, children, families – will come!
An upgrade of the only community centre in the central city has been on the Waitamatā Local Board to do list since we first got planning after the 2010 election. Ellen Melville & Pioneer Womens Hall on Freyberg Square between High and O’Connell Streets had been neglected under the old Auckland City Council. The facilities are tired, inaccessible and under -utilised. Many people who live and visit the city centre don’t even know that there is a community hall right in the heart of Auckland.
The Board was able to secure the $3m budget and agreed to the upgrade being combined with refurbishment of Freyberg Square (funded from the city centre targetted rated) to ensure the projects are well integrated and disruption minimised during construction.
The Square upgrade and the proposed removal of the road through the square in front of the hall has created debate about the value of people- focused spaces in the city centre. NZ Herald 21 September Car v people issue splits city precinct
Major upgrades are planned for the city centre’s only community centre and the square in front of it, and Aucklanders are being asked for their thoughts on the draft concept design.
The redesign of Freyberg Square and refurbishment of Pioneer Women’s and Ellen Melville Hall are being funded by the Waitematā Local Board and by city centre businesses and residents through the targeted rate.
The proposals will provide a better pedestrian connection from High Street to Courthouse Lane and the recently upgraded O’Connell Street, building on the success of that popular improvement. It also proposes closing off the roadway to the front of the Pioneer Women’s and Ellen Melville Hall to improve safety and create an improved public square that better integrates with the community facility.
Waitematā Local Board Chair Shale Chambers says, “City centre resident numbers have tripled to 30,000 in the last 12 years and we need our community facilities to catch up. The hall and the square are both already popular and well used; but with these enhancements, they will be able to become a real draw card, meeting the needs of people living and working in this part of the city, while creating more foot traffic for local retailers and landowners.”
Auckland design champion Ludo Campbell-Reid says, “This is an opportunity to create a world-class, vibrant community hub in the city centre and is another step in delivering the City Centre Masterplan. Improving the square and the hall as one project will create a better, more integrated result and save money.”
Concept designs have been drafted for the square and building with input from local groups and key stakeholders. Children were also actively engaged in the design process as part of the Waitemata Local Board’s Child Friendly City UNICEF initiative.
The consultation will give the public, other users and visitors the opportunity to fine tune those designs and ensure that what is delivered meets the wider community needs.
Construction is expected to take 9-12 months, starting in winter 2016. The council is committed to minimising disruption during construction, so is also asking for input on how to retain activity and available public space during the construction period.
Feedback on the draft designs closes on 27 September, 2015. There are a number of on-site drop-in sessions and an open day on Saturday 12 September.
For information and to complete an online feedback form visit Shape Auckland.
Auckland has a stunning new icon.
Barb Cuthbert and Max Robitzsch from Bike Auckland (then Cycle Action Auckland) were ready with just the right project – a concept for the off-ramp as a cycleway connected to K’rd (also supported and promoted by Transport Blog). Fortunately the timing was perfect with a new Regional Director at NZTA willing to make the idea a reality and Auckland Transport agreeing to get on board to tackle Nelson St to provide a business case for the off-ramp as a key connection in the city’s cycling network. The crucial funding arrived with the Government’s announcement of a $100m Urban Cycling Investment Fund in August 2014 followed by confirmation that
etched carvings at intervals along the length, with a 6-metre pou at the entrance. The colour (by Resin Surfaces Ltd) represents the heartwood of a freshly cut totara, with the red and pink shades strengthened to contrast with the surrounding motorway lanes. It includes LED lights by Iion lighting lining the safety barriers, that can interact and pulse as people pass them, as well as a strong magenta surface colour that fades out at the northern end in a Māori design (details from the Auckland Council media release).
