7 December 2004

Bypass 'Progress' Afront to Inner-city Community

Commencement of work on the inner city bypass today by contractors Fulton Hogan is an afront to affected communities and all thinking people of Wellington, Anti-Bypass Action spokesperson Tony McPhail said today.

On Friday December 10 there will be a colourful & creative demonstration, meeting midday in Civic Square with music and dance performances by local groups.

Public notification about the programme and timetable for the work has been minimal, despite massive anticipated disruptions to the immediate community.

"There is a shameful lack of information about a project that is going to see the centre of the inner city in turmoil for the next two or more years," Mr. McPhail said.

"Ongoing noise, pollution and danger to pedestrians, including those attending the five adjacent schools and pre-schools in the area has been given little consideration.

"So-called 'consultation' by representatives of Fulton Hogan, Transit New Zealand and the Wellington City Council over the project has always been initiated by the community themselves, and the feedback has been woefully inadequate.

"Local residents and workers in the area continue to oppose the project and Anti-Bypass Action intends to continue to fight it."

"This project is totally against the wishes of the local community. The Te Aro community is famous for being creative and in the the next few weeks we hope to become infamous! We encourage every one who is opposed to the bypass to creatively and actively resist."

ENDS

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