Safety work in Orewa begins

Work on Auckland Transport’s (AT) plan to introduce raised crossings, speed bumps and ‘side islands’, among other safety measures, in Orewa Town Centre is scheduled to begin this month.

In total, the work will cost ratepayers around $1 million, funded by the regional fuel tax.

It is designed to lower speeds and improve safety, particularly for pedestrians, cyclists and scooters.

AT will also extend a 30kph speed limit to the town centre on November 30.

AT prioritised Orewa Town Centre for the work due to high numbers of vulnerable road users – children, the elderly, people walking and riding bikes or motorcycles interacting with motorists. It says reducing speeds here has the greatest potential to reduce the chance of serious injuries and deaths occurring.

In addition, it could be good for business. Destination Orewa Beach operations manager Hellen Wilkins says it’s a busy area, and the changes will ensure people can cross safely to the shops.

Residents were consulted about the project and 179 submissions were received.

Just 50 people (27.9 percent) were generally supportive of the project.

Only 14 submitters consider Orewa Town Centre should be a lower speed zone with some saying it was already slow enough through this area. In response, AT said “although the traffic speeds are relatively low, installation of speed tables and speed humps reinforces that motorists need to travel to the posted speed limits”.

Construction is likely to start in September and be complete by November.