Plenty to say on Kihikihi streets

Plans to turn six Kihikihi streets into cul-de-sacs have hit a nerve.

Over the last month, Waipā District Council has sought feedback on proposals to turn parts of Bryce St, Grey St, Rolleston Street south, Moule Street, Hall Street north and Whitaker Street north into no exit streets.

People will still be able to access the streets from both ends by foot, bike, scooter or mobility devices but vehicles will only be able to enter from one end.

Creating no exit streets would reduce the number of intersections on Rolleston and Whitmore Streets for users of a new walking and cycleway to be built in the town. The pathway, to be built in mid-2024, has been part-funded by Waka Kotahi to help create more transport choices and make it easier for people to leave cars at home.

Consultation undertaken in February showed strong community support for the pathway.

Council’s transportation manager Bryan Hudson said unless cul-de-sacs were built, pathway users will be forced to cross multiple roads.

“The purpose-built pathway is going to be used a lot by kids going to and from school so from a safety perspective, I think cul-de-sacs are clearly the best option. But that’s not my decision to make.”

Close to 150 submissions were received on the proposal – some in favour and some against. Elected councillors will make a final decision on whether or streets will become cul-de-sacs in September.