New boardwalk adds to green network cycleway

New boardwalk adds to green network cycleway

North Shore City Council is set to start construction of a new coastal boardwalk in Takapuna as part of its planned 'green network' cycleway that will eventually link Devonport and Bayswater with Takapuna and beyond.

The project will see a 2.5 metre-wide boardwalk built through regenerating native bush and mangroves in Northboro Park, replacing an existing boardwalk. New footpaths will also be built linking the boardwalk to Francis Street, opening the area to cyclists and those with limited mobility.

The chairperson of the council's community services and parks committee, Margaret Miles, says the boardwalk is a key link in the planned 'Green Cycle Route' project. "Ultimately we hope to see a network of cycle ways across the length and breadth of our city," she says.

"By offering these alternative routes through parks and reserves and along quiet roads away from heavily used arterial routes, we hope to create more pleasant conditions for cyclists and pedestrians and encourage more people to use alternative means of transport around our city."

Councillor Miles says the route was already used by cyclists undeterred by steep gradients, steps and the existing narrow boardwalk. "We are removing steps, improving the gradient and widening the boardwalk, making it safer and easier for cyclists and pedestrians to use.

The boardwalk will be closed to pedestrians and cyclists during construction, and regular users are advised to instead take an alternative route from Northboro Park to Northboro Rd.

As a bonus the new boardwalk will also offer views across the water towards the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

Further improvements planned for later this year include signage indicating the recommended cycle route and improvements to footpaths to better accommodate cyclists and pedestrians.