2 September 2004

Auckland City on-board Mt Albert rail station upgrade

Results of preliminary consultation and design work to upgrade the area around the Mt Albert rail station was given the thumbs up by Auckland City’s Transport Committee yesterday.

The preliminary plans are the result of consultation with key stakeholders and the community that was conducted earlier this year.

Councillor Greg McKeown, Auckland City’s Transport Committee chairperson, is pleased with the initial plans.

“These design concepts are exciting. A north-facing piazza behind Triniti of Silver would be an asset to the town centre and would provide access to a new modern station below. This would provide a real focal point for the community and for the town centre,” says Mr McKeown.

The Mt Albert rail station and surrounding area has been identified as a priority for redevelopment.

“The Mt Albert rail station is located right within the town centre and offers a unique opportunity to work with the community to develop a safe, attractive and well-designed environment. It could be a major fillip for Mt Albert.”

Initial consultation found that while residents and businesses value the historic “leafy suburb” feeling of the residential areas, there is a common belief that heavy through-traffic severed the town centre from the surrounding neighbourhoods and did not create a sense of community. The rail station itself was perceived to be hidden, unsafe and difficult to get to, with a lack of parking for both the station and nearby shops. Mr McKeown says the proposed upgrade will address these issues.

“The development of the rail station will promote the redevelopment of some adjacent properties, and we'll be encouraging good architecture with an active street edge. We've also launched a pedestrian and cycle network study for the area, and have our eye on major streetscape upgrades.”

Mr McKeown says that the while plans are in their early stages it’s vital for the community and key stakeholders to come forward with ideas for the redevelopment of the station and surrounding area.

“The plans are broad brush at the moment and we are taking them back to the community forum for further input. I urge local businesses and residents to come forward with their ideas,” says Mr McKeown.

The plans will be referred to the Eden-Albert Community Board for consideration at its meeting on 22 September. Further public consultation will begin in October 2004.

The Mt Albert station upgrade is part of a wider programme between Auckland City and Auckland Regional Transport Limited (ARTNL) to deliver quality rail precincts around stations or adjoining town centres.

ENDS

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