Getting there - On Foot, By Cycle - Priority 4 Part 2
Last updated on
21/11/2008 2:31 p.m.
A strategy to advance walking and cycling in New Zealand transport
February 2005
The benefits of providing for walking and cycling are recognised in the Urban Design Protocol - and in Napier's West Quay
The New Zealand Urban Design Protocol, led by the Ministry for the Environment, is a voluntary commitment by central and local government, property developers and investors, design professionals, educational institutes and other groups to recognise specific urban design principles. It provides a platform to make New Zealand towns and cities more successful through quality urban design.
The New Zealand Urban Design Protocol, available from early 2005, outlines key urban design qualities to guide signatories. It defines quality urban design as, among other things, including a high priority for walking and cycling, treating streets as positive spaces, providing opportunities for social interaction, and providing environments that encourage physical activity.
The West Quay/Ahuriri Project
The West Quay/Ahuriri project in Napier is one of a number of best practice case studies that support the Protocol. West Key covers a former port area, which was also an important pa in pre-European times. Although the harbour still operates as a working fishing wharf, significant land use changes have increased pressure for residential and recreational activities.
The West Quay project sought to re-emphasise the place's Maori history, also incorporating its association with seaport activity, while catering for new activities in the area. About 95% of the heavy traffic has been removed from the area through traffic-calming engineering and the voluntary co-operation of trucking firms. Walking and cycling have been specifically catered for, and new apartment development close to restaurants, cafes and bars also encourages walking.
Whats good for walking and cycling can also be good for business. Existing and new property owners report that commercial values have increased, the area is perceived as being a desirable area in which to invest, and their businesses have benefited. Napier Mayor Barbara Arnott comments that the 'retention of historic industries with the integration of waterfront living and recreational activities make for a dynamic environment'.
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