The public is advised to expect some disruption within the central business district over the coming weeks with significant road maintenance and improvement works underway on several main streets.
As part of Council’s ongoing road maintenance programme, The Strand, Kakahoroa Drive Service Lane and Commerce Street are scheduled for road re-sealing in the coming weeks.
Manager Transportation Ann-Elise Reynolds says in preparation for these works, pre-seal construction activities are underway on an area of The Strand between Commerce Street and Boon Street. These works include tree removals and minor parking amendments.
"Earlier this year two trees were identified for removal due to the damage they were causing to infrastructure both above and below ground," explains Ann-Elise.
"These trees have been removed and kerb replacement and tree pit reinstatement is currently underway. Two new, more suitable trees will be planted in their place."
Ms Reynolds adds, “Our new tree strategy aims to prevent this type of removal in the future by ensuring the right trees are planted in the right places.”
Minor adjustments are also being made to disability parking arrangements with the CBD to better cater to community needs.
The disability carpark outside of ‘Westpac’ will be relocated to the adjacent 10-minute parallel park to allow access for disability vehicles with rear-mounted ramps or hoists. An additional disability park will be added on the north side of The Strand, adjacent to ‘Salt Air’, as there are currently no disability parks on the northern side for several blocks. On Boon Street, an additional disability carpark will be added adjacent to ‘Body in Motion’ while another parallel park will be added adjacent to ‘Peace Park’.
While these pre-seal construction works are underway the public and nearby businesses may experience temporary disruption to carparking in the area, as well as noise and dust associated with heavy machinery in operation.
Once the pre-seal work is completed, resurfacing works will commence.
“We aim to begin resurfacing The Strand, Commerce Street, and the Kakahoroa Drive Service Lane from Sunday, 24 November, weather permitting,” says Ann-Elise. “Works will be carried out at night under road closures, with the roads fully open in the morning.”
Council understands road works can cause inconvenience and disruption to daily routines, however, the long-term benefits will outweigh the temporary disruption. The public's patience and co-operation is appreciated as we work to strengthen our local roads.