Wednesday 18 May 2016

Community to have a say on Woolston upgrade

Attracting visitors, making it safer for people and bikes, and recognising the area's distinctive industrial heritage are the aims of a proposal to upgrade Woolston Village.

Christchurch City Council is asking residents, businesses and community groups for feedback on the Ferry Road Movement and Streetscape Improvements at Woolston Village proposal - consultation runs from 18 May to 8 June 2016.

The upgrade plan is based on feedback gathered during the Ferry Road Master Plan 2014 process, where people highlighted the need for improvements around the Woolston Village centre.

Key changes and improvements proposed for Woolston include:

• Creating a pedestrian-focused environment, with extra crossing points at key locations and paving that guides people to public spaces and local businesses.

• Slowing vehicle speeds through the centre through installing a flush paved median strip along the centre of the road and introducing a 30kmh speed zone.

• Improving cycle lanes and providing extra cycle parking.

• Planting more trees and improving landscaping to support slow speeds and create a "village feel".

• Upgrading public seating, bins, cycle stands and lighting.

• Creating "gateways" at either end of the village.

• Directing motorists to alternative parking (on side streets and off-street) due to widened footpaths and a reduced number of parks on Ferry Road.

Urban Regeneration Team Leader Carolyn Bonis says the plan for Woolston Village aims to deliver on the wishes of the community and create a vibrant public space.

"Woolston has a unique heritage and character, which is emphasised in the upgrade proposals. We are also seeking to slow down traffic and make the village a more people and cycle-friendly destination. Now we need to hear back from residents, community groups and businesses to ensure the plans we have prepared reflect the feedback they gave through the Ferry Road Master Plan process."

The Woolston Ferry Road Upgrade is part of the wider Suburban Centres Programme, which was introduced by the Council following the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 to regenerate suburban commercial centres across the city. Master Plans have been created for centres throughout eastern and central Christchurch, with the involvement of Council staff, community boards and local stakeholders, including business property owners and operators, central and regional government agencies, community groups, local residents, iwi and other organisations with a stake in the local community.

Consultation on the proposals for the Woolston Ferry Road Upgrade runs from18 May to 8 June. You can find out more information about the plans and how to make a submission at www.ccc.govt.nz/woolston or pick-up copies of the plans from your local service centre or library.

ENDS

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