January 20, 2005

Feedback wanted on cycle improvements

North Shore City Council is calling for feedback on a plan to introduce cycle lanes between Milford and Takapuna.

The proposed route would run along Kitchener Rd in Milford, then Hurstmere Rd and The Strand in Takapuna. The plan is to add cycle lanes to Kitchener and Hurstmere roads, and raised platforms to slow vehicle traffic in The Strand.

"This is a popular route for cyclists in the area, and we want to encourage as many people as possible to cycle by making it a safer, more pleasant journey," North Shore City's transport planner, Aimee Mackay, says.

"The plan is to provide a cycle lane of 1.5m to 1.8m so cyclists can feel comfortable in their own designated road space.

"One of the main questions we need to consult people on is on-street parking between Tiri Rd and O'Neill's Ave," she says.

"We have several options for dealing with this, including removing some parking spaces, reducing the footpath width, or removing the flush median - the area in the centre of the road with white diagonal lines separating the traffic.

"One of these measures will have to be taken to create enough space for both the cycle lane and general traffic lane."

The proposal is part of a city-wide push to improve facilities for cyclists under the council's Strategic Cycle Plan. Work includes more cycle lanes, off-road cycle paths, and conveniently located bike racks.

Residents and businesses in the affected area will receive a consultation brochure in their letterbox later this week.

Anyone else who wishes to have their say can pick up a copy of the brochure at their local area office or library, call Actionline on 486 8600, or go to .

ENDS

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