Business Opposes Banning Cars from Courtenay Place

Media Release
19 January 2011

Business Opposes Banning Cars from Courtenay Place

Banning cars from Courtenay Place would severely inconvenience the public and be disruptive to business according to the Wellington Employers’ Chamber of Commerce.

The proposal was floated by Mayor Wade-Brown in this morning’s Dominion Post as a way to create a more reliable bus service.

“The Chamber supports improved passenger transport and a move towards fewer vehicles in the golden mile but we are totally opposed to a ban on cars,” said Chamber President Richard Stone.

“Wellington business relies on efficient transport to facilitate the flow of goods and people across the city. This requires a balanced approach between cars and buses.

“Courtenay Place businesses - which include health practitioners, cinemas, video libraries and take-away outlets, as well as bars and cafes – are particularly dependent on road access and drop-off facilities for their customers’ and employees’ wellbeing, safety and convenience.

“Businesses and the public generally would be very much opposed to restrictions being put on cars which need to visit local businesses, to park, pick up or drop off passengers, even at peak hours. A vibrant city needs lively streets, easy access and a healthy hospitality and retail sector.

“Courtenay Place is also an important thoroughfare and banning vehicles would put pressure on the parallel, already-congested streets.

“In parts of the Golden Mile if there is severe congestion in the future, we agree there may be a case to restrict peak hour vehicle use. This is not the case with Courtenay Place now where there is no congestion problem at all.

“CBD road space is scarce so it has to be used efficiently but there are ways of improving traffic flows without banning cars. A robust decision making process is needed on these important issues and we look forward to providing the new Mayor and council with a business perspective,” Mr Stone concluded.

ENDS

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