This closes tomorrow, 11 December

Spokes submission below made to Council on 11 December

https://www.ccc.govt.nz/the-council/consultations-and-submissions/haveyoursay/show/105

Spokes supports Council in recognizing that density and multi modal use in this residential area requires a lower speed limit. Slower speeds can make the roads feel safer for those on foot and bicycle while also signalling drivers to slow down and share the space. Given that the Little River Rail Link MCR also travels through here lowering the speed to 30 km/h is urged to achieve the safety non-motorized road users want.

Council’s Cycle Design Guidelines also recommend a 30 km/h speed limit.

“2.3. Major cycleways through residential streets

In urban residential streets, major cycleways will ideally be neighbourhood greenways which create a slow, safe environment where bicycles, vehicles and people can comfortably mix. The quality of the environment and amenity of the residential street is also enhanced through this design.” And the speed limit made clear in 2.3.1 “The design and appearance of the street is designed to encourage low traffic speeds (less than 30km/h) and low volumes, maximising safety for cyclists and pedestrians.”

This is also a natural route from the south west suburbs to the city. What may not be obvious is with Antigua Street closed north of St Asaph more people on bicycles are now commuting from the south via Selwyn and Simeon Streets to Collins and Ward Streets and through Church Square and north to the city via Grove Road and Hagley Ave. Given that Antigua will remain closed at least through April 2018 many will find they like this route. Lowering speeds here to 30 km/h is clearly indicated both for road safety and to encourage more of the ‘interested but concerned’ cyclists specifically targeted by the Major Cycle Routes program.