Council approves cycleways projects

The Council has given the go-ahead for final design and construction to begin on sections of the Major Cycleways routes.

Elected members today approved three projects that will improve safety and go on to form part of the network of 13 Major Cycleways.

The projects include an off-road cycleway along Matai Street East from the railway line to Deans Ave, part of the Uni-Cycle route. A signal-controlled crossing will connect Matai Street East to Hagley Park across Deans Avenue, providing a safer option for pedestrians and riders.

Changes and improvements will be made to the traffic signals at the junction of Harper Avenue, Fendalton Road and Deans Avenue, also enhancing pedestrian and cyclist safety.

Christchurch Girls’ High School and the Ministry of Education had sought a delay on the Matai Street East work so plans for a campus redevelopment could be considered alongside the cycleway. However, the Council decided to press on with the project while committing to work with the school and Ministry as it develops a master plan for its campus.

Environmental Committee Chairman Phil Clearwater says it would have been nice to include the school development in plans for the area, however, waiting could have held up the Uni-Cycle route. Any delay might have meant work building the important link did not start during the coming construction season.

The Council felt it was important to press ahead with the route and work with the school and ministry as their plans took shape.

“The Uni-Cycle route was prioritised for construction because it is already well used and provides significant connections between the Central City and tertiary institutions. It will also provide significant benefits to students and others riding to and from Christchurch Girls’ High School and other education facilities along the route.”

Other Major Cycleways work already approved by the Council for design and construction:
· A shared pedestrian and cycle pathway through Rutland Reserve, part of the Papanui Parallel route (approved by the Council on 17 July 2014).
· Intersection improvements on the Northern Line Cycleway, crossing Deans Ave and connecting to Hagley Park between Mayfair Street and Blenheim Road (approved by the Council on 22 May 2014).
- ends -

© Scoop Media