Media Statement
For immediate release
Date 2 November 2005

Go-ahead for Prebbleton-Lincoln walking and cycling link

Construction of a new dedicated walking and cycling route linking the Selwyn District townships of Prebbleton and Lincoln has been given the green light following Land Transport New Zealand’s approval of the $620,000 project.

Land Transport NZ will contribute $359,000 in funding towards the project, with the remainder coming from the Christchurch-Little River Railtrail Trust. The Selwyn District Council will provide the ongoing maintenance of the facility, with construction expected to begin in March 2006.

The 2.2m wide cycleway/walkway will run alongside Birchs Road between Springs Road and Edward Street, a distance of 6 km.

Land Transport NZ Southern Partnership Manager Jackie Curtis said the new link would improve safety and promote healthy transport alternatives for local residents.

“The high school, university and agricultural research facilities in Lincoln generate demand from pedestrians and cyclists. Birchs Road is narrow and the 100km/h speed limit is not conducive to safe cycling or walking. A dedicated off-road link will provide a safe route for existing cyclists and pedestrians, and it will provide another commuting option for drivers thinking of a healthier alternative.”

Ms Curtis said the project is also well aligned with the Canterbury Regional Land Transport Strategy, which identifies the importance of providing linkages between districts and supports greater use of walking and cycling.

Selwyn District Council Asset Manager Roading Andrew Mazey said he was delighted with the decision to fund the project, which could eventually form part of an anticipated walking and cycling route from Christchurch to Little River being promoted by the Railtrail Trust in conjunction with the Selwyn, Banks Peninsula and Christchurch City Councils.

“Council and the Trust view this project as the corner stone to developing and promoting cycling and walking opportunities in this area, not only for those locally but in time forming part of an extended facility to benefit the region.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media