5 May 2004

Strategic vision and plans for Auckland’s CBD adopted

The council’s Auckland’s CBD Into the future strategy has been adopted following extensive consultation.

The vision, presented by Auckland’s CBD Into the future project, is to position the CBD internationally as one of the world’s most vibrant and dynamic business and cultural centres.

Auckland’s CBD Into the future strategy outlines the way the council plans for residential and business growth in the CBD and also deals with transport, environmental, social and cultural issues.

The strategy will be accompanied by an action plan and the central area access strategy. The action plan sets out specific projects proposed by the council. These include projects to improve the attractiveness of Queen street as a retail destination, upgrade Quay and Lorne Streets, promote 24 hour activity, promote the CBD as a business location and to ensure the high quality design of new developments.

From the start, the council has worked with CBD residents, businesses, investors and visitors to find out what they think needs to happen to create the CBD of the vision.

The chairperson of Auckland City’s Strategy and Governance committee, Councillor Mark Donnelly says prior to adopting the strategies the council wanted to ensure they reflected what Aucklanders wanted for their CBD.

The public was asked for its thoughts during a public consultation process which took place from 15 March to 2 April 2004. The response was pleasing with 264 submissions received, mostly from individuals.

Transport was seen by submitters as the most significant challenge for the CBD, with 45 per cent of comments asking for improved public transport options and an end to the city’s traffic congestion woes.

“Consequently transport related actions have been given priority in the CBD action plan. The aim is to get people into and around the CBD as easily as possible. Everyone becomes a pedestrian once they reach the CBD, so we need to ensure that it’s easier to walk around there,” says Mr Donnelly.

Improving the urban environment is seen as the next key challenge, with special mention made of the waterfront, inner city streets, residential buildings and safety.

Next on the priority list is the need to develop an identity and character, improve the atmosphere and retail experience, provide entertainment, leisure and recreation opportunities, address the city’s diversity and protect and promote its heritage.

Reducing rubbish and improving rubbish collection in the CBD was also noted as an area of concern along with air pollution.

The updated action plan will be presented to the July Strategy and Governance Committee for endorsement, following the adoption in late June of the annual plan and decision on a proposed targeted rate for the CBD.

An implementation plan will also be developed to ensure anyone with an interest in Auckland’s CBD understands what’s happening.

“Auckland’s CBD plays an important role in supporting both the region’s and country’s economy. Hence its success benefits all Auckland city residents regardless of where they live, work or play,” says Mr Donnelly.
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