Definite change in Fendalton Road with ‘Option Three’

Press, 13 December 1986, Page 5

Definite change in Fendalton Road with ‘Option Three’

“Option Three” for the reconstruction of Fendalton Road attempts to offer more facilities than "Option One” without the devastating effect on the landscape as in “Option Two.”

There would still be a definite change in the character of Fendalton Road if this option was implemented, mainly because of the structural change brought about by the median strip. As a first move from “Option One,” it has been assumed the footpath could be placed on the private property side of the first line of trees. The space between the trees could then be used for parking. The scheme has basic similarities to the one discussed in public in 1983. From the railway to Straven Road the median is up to 2m wide. There are two continuous lanes 3.5 m to 4m wide with intermittent parking between trees. No median gaps are provided.

From Straven Road to Clyde Road the layout of lanes is basically the same but the median is widened to 4.2 m. The wider median allows for protected openings at

Snowdon Road, Tui Street, Glandovey Road, and Waiwetu Street. The edge of the through lane is almost in line with the stone wall outside St Barnabas’ Church. Shifting the wall would allow some parking under the trees. There would be a substantial loss of kerbside parking opposite the church because of the large trees, especially on the northern side of the road.

“Option Three” would mean 35 of the 117 significant trees and three of the 41 key trees would be removed. The loss of trees betwen the railway and Straven Road and from Tui Street to Glandovey Road would badly affect the landscape. Land would be bought under this option which would be used for substantial tree planting.

The road would not be as safe as under “Option Two” because ‘U’ turns would be concentrated at Straven Road. Speed could be expected to in-

crease slightly and the road would suit a 60km/h restriction.

The realignment of footpaths would remove pedestrians from close contact with traffic. The path would move behind and under large trees, providing interest for pedestrians. Wide grass berms are also proposed under this option.