Media Release 15 February 2008

Petition on River Access

Asset Management & Biosecurity Committee

Hawke's Bay Regional Council’s Asset Management and Biosecurity Committee this week considered a petition from residents of Guppy Road and Ascot Avenue in Taradale asking the Regional Council to take some action to reduce the traffic hazard from drivers accessing the Tutaekuri River at Guppy Road.

The petition was signed by more than 100 residents and was also presented to Napier City Council and the NZ Police.

The Council committee considered the petition and spoke with representatives from the residents, Napier City Council and Police about actions they could assist with in the areas of their responsibility.

The Regional Council welcomes public access to the rivers but continues to be frustrated and disappointed with the increasing problem with rubbish and dumped cars in a number of the river access areas. However Councillors and staff understand that the problems are caused by a very small element of the population and need to be balanced against the interest of the wider community who want to access the rivers for recreation.

The Guppy Road access point is popular with families for picnics, swimming and fishing, while many people like the walking and exercise areas.

The Committee agreed to recommend to Council to close off the Guppy Road river access entrance during the hours of darkness. This will reduce the vehicle traffic at night although is expected to have little impact on rubbish dumping. The Council will install a surveillance camera to identify people associated with rubbish dumping and illegal vehicle activity.

Other issues raised by the petitioners would require further discussion between Councils and agencies such as monitoring of traffic, signage maintenance, the establishment of a community policing group and increased attention from Traffic Police in the Guppy Road area.

ENDS

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