AUCKLAND CITY COUNCIL MEDIA RELEASE

3 August 2006

Vulcan Lane design is what people want

The warmth and character of Vulcan Lane will be retained as part of the design concept for the lane which was approved by Auckland City today.

In March last year Auckland City proposed to remove the existing pebble pavers in Vulcan Lane and replace them with basalt pavers.

As a result of issues raised by businesses and property owners in the lane to this proposal in July last year, Auckland City resolved that the upgrade of the lane would focus on repair, restoration and safety.

"We have listened to what people told us they want for the lane and we have included many of those suggestions in the final design," said Dick Hubbard, Mayor of Auckland city.

The final design incorporates several elements that had strong support through the feedback process including:

* a river pebble paving border (same as existing) * retaining the existing Melia tree and planting more native trees * grouping new, replica pavers together - as they will look slightly different to the existing, restored pavers * CBD style seating, refined to integrate with Vulcan Lane * subtle and unobtrusive lighting.

While the design was being developed, engineers have tested the pavers in the lane and found that about 950 pavers will need to be replaced with replicas and some may be repaired. The replicas will be designed to match the existing pavers.

As many existing pavers as possible will be re-used as part of the upgrade.

The upgrade will include drainage works and installation of other infrastructure.

Auckland City will work with businesses and property owners in the lane over the next few months to finalise the programme of works to minimise disruption in the area.

ENDS

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