9 June 2006

Paving the way to a prosperous business and cultural centre

Auckland City is seeking public feedback on the revised draft concept plans for the upgrade of Vulcan Lane.

The plan proposes to retain as many of the original pavers as possible and use replica pavers to fill any gaps.

The aim is to maintain and enhance the existing character of the unique pedestrian-only shopping and entertainment area, with a focus on repair, restoration and safety.

Mayor of Auckland city, Dick Hubbard said, “The new restoration-based designs respond to the public feedback that people wanted the character, look and feel of Vulcan Lane to be retained.

“At the same time, we believe we have struck a balance with the need to ensure this part of the city becomes a better, safer place for pedestrians and businesses,” he said.

“We recognise that Vulcan Lane is a unique part of the CBD. Its upgrade will contribute to our long-term strategy of making Auckland’s CBD one of the world’s most vibrant and dynamic business and cultural centres.”

The new concept plan includes pebble paving, introduction of new street furniture and options for additional and different trees. Improvements to the layout of vegetation in Vulcan Lane would improve views into the lane and make it easier for pedestrians to move about.

New lighting and shallower drainage channels would make the lane a safer place for people during the day and night.

The proposed restoration of the lane’s existing paving would cost more and take longer than replacing them with new ones, but it would ensure that the unique warmth and character of Vulcan Lane is maintained.

Auckland City would need to lift all the existing pavers and undertake drainage and necessary infrastructure work prior to relaying restored original pavers and replicas.

The concept design will be available for public feedback from 12 to 25 June 2006.

There will be a display of the designs in the Heart of the City offices (Level 2, 55-57 High Street, CBD) throughout the consultation period and council staff will give a presentation and answer questions on the design at the same venue on Monday 19 June at 6pm and 7pm.

Auckland City will also have a display tent on Vulcan Lane from 8am to 10am on 19 June and from 11:30am to 2pm on 21 and 23 June.

Submission forms will be available at the displays or at www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/cbd

ENDS

© Scoop Media