Spokes Core

Graeme Lindup, Chair of CAN (Cycling Advocates Network) will be iin Christchurch on business next week.  He is interested in meeting up with SPOKES members.  We wiil get to gether with him at the Twisted Hop on the corner of Poplar Lane and Ash Street on on Tuesday 1 June from 5:15pm.  All welcome.

The Future of Transport*

Friday, 30 April 2010, 9am – 12 noon  (refreshments provided)

The Waiau Room, Environment Canterbury, Kilmore St, Christchurch

NZ Society for Sustainability Engineering and Science - 

 Speakers:

• Steve Abley, Managing Director, Abley Transportation Consultants
• Robert Woods, Programme Manager Transport, Canterbury Regional Council
• Dr Simon Kingham, Assoc. Prof., Department of Geography, University of Canterbury

Register now by emailing Vicky - vicky [at] nzsses [dot] org [dot] nz Further information can be found on our website http://www.nzsses.auckland.ac.nz/forums/index.htm

Free to members of NZSSES
                       $40 incl. GST for non-members (Student fee available on application)

Frocks on Bikes Presents....

CHRISTCHURCH'S OWN TWEED RIDE!

With the chill in the air,
it's time to don your cycling chic tweeds and come for
an autumnal jaunt through some of Christchurch's
most beautiful streets and parks.

Hear the crunch of fallen leaves under your tyres!
Feel the cool breeze on your face!
Wave to the jealous motorists!
Be your most glamorous as you deal the wheel!

Its frocking marvellous to be alive when you're on 2 wheels and loving it!

When: Sunday 2nd May, 2:00pm.

 

From Where: EITHER: outside the University library, University Drive, Ilam. Ask google for directions (or even a real person, on campus); OR Riccarton House, at about 2:20pm.

To Where: The Boatshed Cafe for refreshments.

What to Wear: Tweed coats or jackets, kilts, gym frocks or twinsets, woolly tights or plus fours, pearls and cameos, tartan scarves and kid gloves.

Go crazy!

How Long: Depending on photo opportunities and general faffing around, it will probably take us about an hour to get to town. The ride is about 6km.

Frocks on Bikes loves biking for all its reasons -
biking as a means to an end, and biking as an end in itself.

Tweed Ride

We welcome men in tweeds and cycle-savvy young 'uns.

CCC consultation over aspects of the tram extension to Poplar Lane and Tuam/ High Streets.  Mainly appears to be about impacts on car parking, but may be an opportunity to address improved cycling access across the Lichfield/ Manchester intersection for those travelling along High Street.

There is a plan of the proposed route at:  http://resources.ccc.govt.nz/files/haveyoursay/10-213538-Tram-PIL-April2... . Submissions close on 30 April 2010.

Spokes has made the following submission:

Dear Christine

This is a submission from Spokes - the Canterbury Cycling Association.  Thanks for the opportunity to comment on these proposals.

Because of its alignment, linkages to other streets, and connection between the city centre and CPIT, High Street is an important cycling route in the central city.  There is considerable potential for cycling use to increase along this route as more people take up cycling, the cycling network is improved and proposals to make the central city more cycling friendly are implemented.  The High street is also an important pedestrian route.

Spokes is concerned that the proposed tram extension project may compromise the qualities of High Street and Tuam Street for cycling.  Two specific issues of concern are the installation of tram tracks (particularly curved tracks which have proved problematic in Armagh St) giving rise to cycling accidents, and what appears to be a lack of provision for cyclists between moving trams and parked cars.  While we accept that Council has made a decision to extend the tram into this area, we consider that both these issues need to be addressed in the final design of the scheme.

Spokes also considers that, given the extent of street works involved, the project should address improvements to cycling access across the Lichfield/ Manchester Street intersection in order to provide a more direct connection between the two sections of High Street.  We sought such provisions in our submission on the tramway extension along High Street from Cashel Street, but were told that this was outside the scope of that project, and that our comments should be addressed to the future Lichfield/ Manchester intersection works.

Currently cycling access across this intersection is awkward, particularly travelling south east towards CPIT.  Cyclists have to leave High Street and cross two lanes of traffic on Manchester Street in order to regain the next section of High Street.  Travelling north west also requires a dogleg via Manchester Street to reach High Street.  It would be relatively easy to incorporate cycleways and crossing lights in the area on the north west side of the Manchester/ Lichfield Street intersection in conjunction with the proposed tram route and crossing provisions.  This would significantly improve cycling access in both directions between the two sections of High street.  Better light phasing and more appropriately located cut downs would also improve pedestrian access across the intersection.

We look forward to a positive outcome in respect of these matters.  Don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any queries, or require further information.

Yours sincerely

Rob

Robin Delamore
Cycling Improvements convenor - Spokes

This one hour social occasion / presentation will showcase the "best of" photos of cycling in overseas.  Presenters include Penny Kemp, John Lieswyn, and Pedaller's Paradise author Nigel Rushton.  Sure to engender lots of discussion should be fun for all.  Followed by an optional social ride along the river.

FLYER ATTACHED - Has been posted around town, ECAN, and centre city bike shops

The proposal involves the exchange of an area of Hagley Park (that includes a car park, on park land, currently used by the hospital) with a similar sized piece of land between the hospital’s Riverside Block and the Avon River.  The swap provides an opportunity to acquire a piece of Hagley Park with Avon River frontage which can be enhanced.

As part of the deal there is potentially an opportunity to obtain cycling access through the park from Riccarton Ave to Rolleston Avenue via the existing hospital bridge. Spokes has already met with the DHB to discuss such a link.

Spokes submission on the re-development and land swap proposals is attached below.

The councils consultation site for this proposal is at: http://www1.ccc.govt.nz/haveyoursay/ConsultationView.aspx?ConsultId=710  Detailed information about the proposal can be found at:  http://www1.ccc.govt.nz/haveyoursay/ConsultationView.aspx?ConsultId=710  (warning - large file!).

NZTA are investigating Options for a new four-lane arterial road from the existing Christchurch Northern Motorway and running east of Belfast (SH1) to connect with Queen Elizabeth II Drive (QEII Drive – SH74), as well as the widening of QEII Drive to four lanes between Main North Road and Innes Road.

NZTA states that "the proposal includes consideration of a parallel cycle/walkway connecting with Owen Mitchell Park in the south, running alongside the arterial and connecting with the old state highway bridge over the Waimakariri River in the north, via local roads."

Lets hope this is more than a proposal, as cycle paths along the proposed arterial could, with appropriate linkages, potentially provide a key cycling route to the north of the city.

Details and a basic plan of the project can be found at:
http://www.nzta.govt.nz/network/projects/christchurch-northern-corridor/docs/brochure.pdf 

Submissions closed on 19 March 2010.

The following submission was sent by email to NZTA on behalf of Spokes:

Thanks for the opportunity to make comments on this initial consultation over the proposed Northern Arterial and QE II Drive Four laning.

We note that the proposal includes "consideration of a parallel cycle/walkway connecting with Owen Mitchell Park in the south, running
alongside the arterial and connecting with the old state highway bridge over the Waimakariri River in the north, via local roads".

Spokes considers that a parallel cycleway with connections to an upgraded old state highway bridge should be an integral part of the proposed northern arterial corridor.  Inclusion of such a cycleway would provide a safe and convenient cycling route between Christchurch, Kaiapoi and points further north and be consistent with the New Zealand Transport Strategy, the Greater Christchurch Urban Development Strategy, the Greater Christchurch Travel Demand Strategy, and the CCC Belfast Area Plan (see attached map).  The cycleway would also be consistent with the State Highway Geometric Design Manual.

While we would support a linkage between the proposed cycleway and Owen Mitchell Park, we would be concerned if the cycleway ended at this point, as other than providing a linkage to Redwood, this would not provide connectivity with the existing cycle path down QE II Drive or the rest of the Christchurch cycling network.  As a result the northern arterial cycleway would be unlikely to be effectively utilised. To establish effective linkages to the Christchurch network the proposed cycleway should extend to and across QE II Drive (preferably via grade separation) and provision should be made for connecting cycleways to be incorporated within the proposed links to Cranford Street and Hills Road.

We consider that any cycleway should be adequately separated from the Northern Arterial carriageway for health and safety reasons, and to improve user experience.  The recently constructed Curletts Road cycle path (SH 73) provides a good model for such separation.  To enhance user experience, screen planting or other forms of screening should also be considered.  The creation of at least one cycling and pedestrian "rest area" well separated from the arterial carriageway could also be considered.

Linkages should be provided between the cycleway and all roads crossed by (or immediately adjacent to) the northern arterial.  Provision should be made for the proposed railway cycle path in the design of the northern arterial crossing of the main north railway, and for connections between the northern arterial cycleway and the railway path. Where existing local roads are blocked off due to the formation of the northern arterial, consideration should be given to constructing a cycling and pedestrian underpass.

We note that the Belfast Area Plan shows a possible cycleway along the northern arterial terminating at the junction of the arterial and the existing motorway, and the railway path terminating at the junction of the railway and the arterial.  While we would support the cycleway continuing to Main North Road, there would appear to be little purpose in continuing past this point unless it is proposed to provide for cycleways parallel to the existing motorway and bridge.  The best solution for a cycling linkage on to the old state highway bridge over the Waimakariri river may be for both the cycleway and the railway path to follow the railway from its intersection with the northern arterial to the bridge.

Thanks again for the opportunity to comment.  Don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any queries or require further information.

Yours sincerely

Robin Delamore
Cycling Improvements convenor - Spokes

NZTA are looking at three options to separate State Highway 1 and Memorial Ave at the Russley Rd intersection (by the Airport).  These options are: 1) Memorial Ave over Russley Rd (bridge), Memorial Road over Russley Rd (tunnel), and 3) Russley Rd over Memorial Ave (bridge).  A three options provide for improved cycle and pedestrian access to the Airport, although Option 1 is less advantageous as cyclists would have to climb to cross over the bridge.

A brochure illustrating the options can be found here:

http://www.nzta.govt.nz/network/projects/memorial-intersection/docs/broc...

A submission on behalf of Spokes was sent on Friday 26th of March 2010, as follows:

Hello

This is a submission from Spokes - the Canterbury Cycling Association. 

I was about to send these comments using the online web feedback form when it vanished from the screen - it must have been taken off just on 5pm!  Fortunately I had saved the comments to another document.

Our comments are as follows:

Do you have any current concerns with the Russley Road (SH1)/Memorial Avenue Intersection? If yes, please provide detail. 

Currently the intersection is a barrier to walking and cycling between the City and the airport, due to the design of the roundabout and traffic speeds in the area.  It should be noted that, as those visiting or leaving the airport people also travel to work at the airport by cycle or on foot. The intersection is also a barrier for cyclists using SH1.

What are the key issues you would like to be resolved at the intersection? 

1) Reduction or removal of barriers to cycling and walking to and from the airport area. 
2) Elimination of the danger and inconvenience currently experienced by cyclists and walkers trying to cross this intersection.

Three options to improve the intersection are being considered. What are your views on the options for the intersection? Would any of these options solve your current issues with the intersection? 

All of the options have the potential to reduce the barriers to cycling and walking to and from the airport.  However, there are likely to be issues with all options where walking and cycling paths cross on and off ramps between the two roads, and separated or controlled crossings of these would be required.  Both Option 1 and Option 2 involve longer underpasses beneath one of other of the main roads, which would be less attractive for cyclists and walkers in the case of Option 1 and cyclists in the case of Option 2.  There may also be air quality issues associated with these underpasses. Option 3 would therefore be preferred as long as there is a good level of separation between a shared (or separated) walking and cycling path and the main carriageway, and all crossings of on and off ramps are separated or light controlled.

Please indicate if you would like to be contacted regarding further project development.

Spokes would like to be consulted as part of further project development.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely

Robin Delamore
Cycling Improvements convenor - Spokes

Here's a good project - consultation over completion of another section of the Avon "boulevard" shared cycling and walking path along Cambridge Terrace between Madras and Peterborough Streets. It is part of an overall street renewal project for this area.

Currently this is a "missing link" in terms of the good quality shared path that exists along the river both before and after this section.  The existing path entrance off the corner of Kimore/ Madras is narrow, rough and not at all obvious. The project should address these issues.   Last year the council also consulted over the extension of the shared path along Cambridge Terrace section between Barbadoes and Fitzgerald.

The only other issues would appear to relate to the need for signage so that people can pick up the path at the Kilmore Madras corner, and also know that the path is part of cycling Route 7 which takes them down the Avon River, and possibly the adequacy of the overall path width (2.5m) - comments on this please!

The consultation pamphlet with a plan showing the proposed path is attached. Submissions closed at 5pm on 26 March.

The following submissionwas sent on behalf of Spokes:

Dear Phillipa

Thanks for the opportunity to comment on this proposal.  Spokes strongly supports the construction of the shared cycling and pedestrian path along this section of Cambridge Terrace.  Improved cycling and walking access along the Avon is consistent with the Avon Master Plan, the recommendations of Council's recently commissioned report by Jan Gehl: "Public Space, Public Life", and "A City for People - Action Plan" that flows from this.  This part of Cambridge Terrace is also an important link on cycling route 7 (Avon City Route).

Spokes considers that the proposed path width of 2.5 metres may not be adequate, particularly if walking and cycling numbers increase in the future, which seems likely as this route is improved.  To "future proof" the path, we suggest that the constructed width be increased to 3m.  It is also important to ensure that street furniture, signage and the fronts of parked cars do not "clutter" the shared path, as has occurred on the sections of the Avon promenade on Oxford Street between Manchester and Madras Street, and also opposite the Strip between the Bridge of Remembrance and Lichfield Street.

The "Give Way" at the intersection of Peterborough Street and Cambridge Terrace for traffic turning left into Peterborough Street, or continuing straight ahead, is supported.  This corner is "blind" for cyclists and motorists entering Cambridge Terrace from Peterborough Street.

The entrance to the existing river side path at the Madras/ Kilmore intersection (next to 318 Madras Street) is currently somewhat obscure, and easily missed. The upgraded path entrance should be clearly signposted (including the cycle route name and number) and made inviting for users, with sufficient space for cyclists and walkers travelling up river and waiting to cross Madras or Kilmore Streets.

The crossing of Madras and Kilmore Streets to link up the river side path sections along Oxford Street and Cambridge Terrace is tortuous and confusing, and presents a barrier for walkers and cyclists.  It would be helpful if a more direct crossing could be provided as part of this project, or possibly the Madras St street renewal project.  Possible solutions might include a "barn dance" crossing at the Madras/ Kilmore intersection, or underpasses under the Madras and Kilmore Street bridges over the Avon. Improved directional signage should also be provided.

Don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any queries, or require further information.

Yours sincerely

Robin Delamore
Cycling Improvements convenor - Spokes

Back2School by Bike Maintenance Day

Date: 13th February 2010, 1:00 to 4:00pm

Location: Linwood Community Art Centre, 388 Worcester Street.

What's happening: Do you have a bike or old clunker that requires some work or been lying unloved and neglected in the shed? We're having free bike maintenance/tune up workshop and invite all bike owners to come along. You can participate in the process, and learn the basics of how to maintain bikes: fixing punctures, lubing chains etc.

Sunday 31st January 1-4pm (including cafe afterwards!)
Meet at Armagh St entrance to Hagley Park by 12.50pm (will return near here at ride’s end)
Spokes Core member Glen Koorey will lead cyclists on a quiet ride from town first out west through Riccarton to Upper Riccarton, then head south through Middleton, Spreydon and Addington before returning back to town for a casual debrief over a cuppa. Along the way, Glen will discuss various Council projects past, present and future affecting cycling.
This ride will generally entail quiet streets and pathways suitable for less confident cyclists, with plenty of stops. Younger cyclists are welcome, so long as they are accompanied by a caregiver, and they should be OK with riding for long periods of time. Bring a drink, some nibbles, your camera, and suitable protection from the elements (hot or cold).
(see route map below)
See you there!

This is a street "renewal" project on Simeon Street, which also happens to be on an excellent cyling route from Hagley Park to the Heathcote River, and will be identified in the forthcoming cycling guide (map). 

The proposal is to extend the curbing out and increase the berm area between Coronation Street and Andrew Crescent.  This has already been done to a short section of Simeon St and to part of Collins Street.  A potential problem is that this narrows the carriageway and if cars are parked along the curb (there can be a surprising number around the Brougham St intersection) this pushes cyclists out into the traffic.

It may be better to provide indented parking areas along the proposed new berm areas to overcome this.

The consultation plan is attached.  Submissions close Wednesday 4 November, 2009.

An email submission has been sent as follows:

Dear Angela

Thank you for the opportunity to make a submission on this proposed street renewal project.  Simeon Street forms part of an excellent quiet cycling route from Hagley Park to the Heathcote River, and is identified as a route on the Council's Season of Cycling website at:  http://www.seasonofcycling.co.nz/rides/getting-around/25-somerfield-city

While Spokes is generally in favour of projects that involve traffic calming and street "greening" we are concerned that the proposal to narrow the width of the carriageway between Coronation St and Andrew's crescent may reduce the attractiveness and safety of this road for cycling.  The reason for this is that the previous street renewal works in both Simeon and Collins Streets on either side of Brougham Street (and Grove Road)have narrowed the carriageway to the extent that there is no longer separate road space for parked cars, cyclists and other vehicles.  As a result "pinch" points are created in these areas when cars are parked on both sides of the road and passing traffic can be intimidating for cyclists.  Parking appears to be a particular problem at weekends, and on Collins Street regularly includes a delivery truck.  An extension of the existing street narrowing south down Simeon Street could exacerbate this conflict, particularly if more road side parking or urban intensification occurs in the future, as appears to have happened in both Collins St and Grove Road .

We consider that a simple solution to this issue would be to recess parking into the berm area, so that parked cars do not extend out beyond the proposed curb line.  This would provide additional "greening" of the street, and ensure that cyclists are more visible and have adequate road space.  If parking is not recessed, then more road width should be provided.   We also note that, with the wider berm, some residents appear to be parking cars on the grass rather than the road.  Providing dedicated parking areas may help reduce this practice.

We also consider that the curve in Simeon Street at house numbers 148/ 161 is two gentle.  It appears to be geometrically designed for 60-70 km/h speeds rather than a neighbourhood street.  We request that the curve be engineered to a tighter radius to suit local traffic conditions.  This would also contribute to traffic calming in the street.

The approaches on both sides of Coronation Street should be reduced to 6 metres in width from the proposed 7 metre so that overtaking of cyclists and "pinching" them to the curb just before the intersection is discouraged. 

Thanks again for the opportunity to consult.  Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any queries or require further information.  We would like the opportunity to attend any site meeting or hearing held to consider the project.

Yours sincerely
Robin Delamore

Cycling Improvements convenor - Spokes

These works mainly arise from laying the tram tracks - there will be double tracks over this section.  This part of High St will be a "slow street" and space appears to being created for cyclists as well as the trams.  In addition, cycle stands will be provided! 

The trams have to cross the pedestrian area at the junction of High and Lichfield Sts in order to cross the intersection into the next section of High St.  This may provide an opportunity to improve cycling ccess between these two sections of High St as well (currently linking them requires an awakward devisation via Manchester St).  However, the current proposal doesn't appear to provide for this.

A plan of the proposal is attached.

An email submission ha sbeen lodged, as follows:

Dear Anne

Thanks for the opportunity to comment on this project.  We see a number of potential issues arising from the installation of tram tracks in High Street, and the way this has been addressed in the proposed design.  Unless these issues are addressed, they will significantly diminish the usefulness and pleasantness of High Street for cycling, particularly if the same design is extended to the other sections of the street.

Of particular concern is the space designated for cyclists between the parking bays and the outer tram track (approx. 1.7 metres). A cyclist riding between parked cars and the outer tram track and trying to avoid opening car doors will be very close to the track, and a minor movement outwards could see them getting their front wheel caught in the rail. As we know from the Armagh / Rolleston intersection, this can result in frequent cycle accidents.

To make matters worse, the parking bays are very narrow at 2.0 metres. For years, CCC has been building parking bays at 2.3 metres, as this reflects driver behaviour. Drivers having to manoeuvre into a parking bay across a V channel often end up significantly further away from the kerb than where a parking lane is marked on the carriageway (the V channel is only shown on the cross section; the plan view doesn't give this detail).

With the layout proposed, cyclists riding between the outer tram rail and parked cars will constantly within the door opening zone, as the proposed corridor is too narrow for this, and the parking bays are not deep enough (and are a departure from Council’s own practice). Opening car doors are the main hazards for cyclists in the midblock.  Cycle safety problems have therefore been engineered into the proposed design, as it stands.

It will be far safer to cycle between the tram rails, i.e. in the same position where a tram would position itself. This is already common practice on other sections of road with straight stretches of tram lines (e.g.  Worcester Boulevard). For this to be comfortable for most cyclists in this location, we suggest:

Posting a 20 km/h speed limit for the street (which would support Council’s aim of creating a slow street environment),

Making the carriageway narrower, so that the gap between parked cars and the tram tracks reduces to something that is obviously too narrow for cyclists to use (We suggest reducing the carriageway width from 8.3 metres to perhaps 7.0 metres, which gives another 650 mm on each side to footpaths and/or some more width to the parking bays), and

Marking the location between the tram lines with some road markings other than the normal cycle logo (as that defines a cycle lane which no other traffic can routinely use) so that all road users know that this is where cyclists are supposed to be.

The trams will cross the pedestrian area at the junction of High and Lichfield Sts in order to cross the intersection and gain the next section of High St.  This should also provide an opportunity to improve cycling access between these two sections of High St (currently linking them requires an awkward deviation via Manchester St).  Cyclists could simply use the same signals as the trams will use to cross the intersection, while other traffic is stopped.  We request that the project be amended to make provision for such improved access.  The pedestrian crosswalks at the Lichfield / Manchester intersection will also need to be adjusted to take account of the tram tracks and tram movements in the area.

Once again, thanks for the opportunity to provide comment on these projects.  We would like to be heard in support of our submission.

Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any queries or require further information.

Yours sincerely
Robin Delamore

Robin Delamore
Cycling Improvements convenor - Spokes

The Law Commission has been asked to review alcohol legislation. What they recommend will likely result in new legislation. Part of this process is the request for submissions on their proposals. You can read the summary and access the submission process by going to http://www.lawcom.govt.nz/ProjectOccassionalPaper.aspx?ProjectID=154 

The summary and submission form are fairly easy to read, understand and use.

Some of the issues are:

• Drinking Age
• Lower blood alcohol limits while driving/riding
• Advertising
• Alcohol sales licensing and hours
• Alcohol taxes
• Alcohol and criminal behaviour
• Simplification and focus of alcohol legislation

If you would like to read some background you can also go to http://www.ahw.co.nz/pdf/AHWbriefingpaper_2004-1_SOL.pdf

Why bother? Its your community. Alcohol abuse is a major contributor to traffic fatalities and to crime. If you are lucky some drunk may just steal your bike.

Submissions are due by 30 October. Take 20 minutes or more and you can do your part.

Thanks, PX 10

This link takes you directly to the summary and submission form

The Council is proposing to single lane the stretch of Harewood Rd between the Bishopdale roundabout and Nunweek boulevard, and install cycle lanes.  Apparently the reason this section was chosen (as opposed to the horrible bit between Greers Rd and the roundabout) is partly because of funding allocated for the Breens Gardiners intersection improvements and the intermediate school bubble.

The project looks pretty good - shame about the bit closer to town!  There are some issues with cyclists wanting to do a right turn into the Bishopdale shops, but overall it looks OK.

Because of the amount of road space, the single lane-ing will result in the creation of a flush median on each side of raised centre median. There here may be an opportunity to dispense with this flush median, and instead provide some separation betwen the cycle lane and the vehicle lane, possibly through a flush median in this location instead.a photo of an example from Melbourne (courtesy of Glen) is attached.

A PDF of the consultation leaflet with a detailed plan of the project is attached.  Submissions close on 2 October at 5pm.  A draft submission is proposed as follows:

Dear ...

Thanks for the opportunity to make a submission on this special consultative procedure.  Spokes strongly supports the provision of cycle lanes along Harewood Road between Highsted Road and Nunweek Boulevard.  The project will assist local cyclists and school children, particularly those using the Breen's/ Gardiners Rd intersection.  

It is disappointing that cycle lanes are not being provided between the Highsted Road intersection roundabout and Greer's Road, as parking along on this dual carriageway section makes it extremely cycle unfriendly, particularly during periods of busy traffic.  As such, it tends to create a barrier for cyclists wishing to travel between this part of Bishopdale to Papanui and beyond.

Spokes considers that there are several areas where the proposed cycle lane project could be improved.   An issue with cycle lanes throughout the city is that often fail (at least in the minds of those using them) to provide sufficient separation between cyclists and passing cars, particularly when cars are parked on the inside of the lanes.  This situation can cause discomfit, and put off less experienced riders.   With the single lane-ing of Harewood Road,  the road is being narrowed by the provision of a flush median adjacent to the raised central median.  There is an opportunity to shift this median space away from the centre of the road and use it to provide additional separation between the cycle lane and other traffic.  This approach has been used for cycle lanes in both Australia and the USA, and we would urge its consideration for this project.  

There is currently no provision in the design for cyclists heading SE who wish to access Bishopdale Mall (and facilities such as the supermarket and the gym) at the Mall vehicular entrance and exist just before the roundabout (opposite No 330).  The design of this intersection does not appear to have been developed with cyclists in mind and would be be unfriendly and possibly dangerous, particularly with three lanes to cross.  The intersection design needs to be re-thought with cyclists in mind.

The crossing and refuges on Harewood Road just before the Bishopdale roundabout are the only means by which less confident cyclists can gain access to Bishopdale Mall from Highsted Road and vice versa.  The alternative is an intimidating trip around the multi-laned  roundabout, or a difficult crossing of Harewood Road at the Mall vehicle entrance and exit discussed above.  The profile of the crossing needs to be raised for cyclists, and a short section of cycle lane provided on the wide section of footpath on the corner of Harewood and Highsted Roads to provide safe access back on to Highsted Road at the Caltex entrance.  The bus shelter on Harewood Road outside the Caltex Station also needs to be moved as this currently blocks sightlines for pedestrians and cyclists using this crossing.

We would like to be heard in support of our submission.  Please don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any queries or require further information.

Cheers
Rob

Robin Delamore
Cycling Improvements convenor - Spokes

Spokes Strategic Gathering Part 2.

Saturday, 26th September starting at 12:30pm, concluding at about 5:00pm.

A limited supply of sushi will be available plus BYO food for a shared lunch to kick off, plus bring a small plate for afternoon tea).

Everyone welcome, come even if you can only be with us for part of the afternoon. 

Agenda:

12:30 to 1:00pm Introduction: Doing the formalities.

1:00 to 2:00pm Presentation on "Paths to Persuasion": A basic outline on what is required long before making a submission or proposal. Covers issues related to understanding how politicians think and make decisions. Followed by a discussion session. Led by Bill Demeter.

2:00 to 3:00pm Looking Back/Looking Forward:  Review of last meeting and identifying broad goals for the future. Paul 

3:00 to 3:15pm:  Afternoon tea.

3:15 to 3:45pm Sub-committee conveners: give a brief on what is happening in their area of interest (10 minutes each) and discuss opportunities for improvements.

Publicity and Information - John

Cycle Improvements -  Robin

Major Submissions - Dirk

3:45 to 4:45pm Workshops: Planning for the future. 

4:45pm to 5:00pm Conclusion: Wrap up the day's event.

Bring your bicycle or walking shoes to the opening of the newest
section of the Railtrail between Prebbleton Village and Hornby.