Media release

Good design focus on new cycle/pedestrian path and bridge
April 19, 2007

North Shore City Council has started work on a shared path and bridge for cyclists and pedestrians linking Onewa Rd with Onepoto Reserve and Sylvan Ave.

The new path and bridge will allow pedestrians and cyclists to safely cross Onepoto Stream.

The council's urban design champion, Chris Darby, says the bridge design builds on the surrounding natural environment and creates a sense of place for people to appreciate.

"It features a sculptured wave design which picks up on the imagery of the estuary and laminated timber balustrades filter road noise and open up views over Onepoto Basin," Councillor Darby says.

"The wave design is continued along the path in sheltered seating areas, providing opportunities to relax and enjoy.

"This project is a first for the city and underlines our commitment to better design of public projects, guided by this council's adoption of the government's urban design protocol," he says. "Beca Carter Architects has provided a refined and elegant outcome."

The project will also include innovative lighting and native plant landscaping, as well as a boardwalk at the upper end of the path.

The community was consulted on plans for the bridge last year, and feedback showed strong support for the plans. The Birkenhead-Northcote Community Board played a key role.

North Shore City's corridor project team manager, Graham Nell, says the path and bridge project is one of several planned for this area.

"We're also planning to widen the lower part of Onewa Rd, including the bridge over Onepoto Stream, and extend the existing transit lane down to the motorway interchange.

"When the existing bridge for traffic is widened, pedestrians will not be allowed on it, and will use the pedestrian/cycle bridge and path instead," Mr Nell says.

The shared path and bridge are considered one of North Shore City's strategic cycle routes, and will form part of a green cycle network between Northcote and Glenfield.

"We'll be installing more 'share with care' paths across North Shore City for cyclists and pedestrians, to allow young or less confident cyclists to travel safely, especially on popular routes to schools," he says.

ENDS

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