Concept design leaps 90 per cent hurdle

The engineers have been hard at work getting flood protection designs right to ensure that Lower Hutt will be safe in a big flood and wanted some more ideas about how to fit this better into every day uses for the river space. Running tracks, swimming spots, picnic places, cycleways native bush, kayak launching facilities, were among the many great ideas submitted by the public for inclusion in the exciting RiverLink project.

These suggestions were made at recent public sessions at the Dowse Art Museum. Around 250 very engaged members of the public attended, submitted their ideas and got an update on RiverLink from GWRC, Hutt City Council and the NZ Transport Agency.

Feedback was excellent, with views aired on a wide range of subjects covering transport links, social and recreational opportunities and environmental restoration in the river corridor.

“We’re getting closer to a final design, “says Hutt Valley Flood Management Subcommittee chair and GW councillor Prue Lamason. “We’ve presented updated designs based on the public’s views to date. We now have a further opportunity to refine the design based on the most recent feedback”.

Ideas include the promenade (featuring cafes and places for leisure and recreation), the pedestrian/cycle bridge connecting the CBD to Melling Station, cycleways and connection into the wider cycle network, public spaces such as beaches and open fields and native planting. Other matters were bike hire facilities, off dog leash areas, wind breaks, covered pedestrian bridge, busker space and an amphitheatre.

The final “look” of the project will emerge by the end of this year when the preliminary designs go before the Hutt Valley Flood Management Subcommittee for sign off. This will be followed by the detailed design process required for applications for resource consents in 2018. Members of the public will then have the opportunity to have their say on the final design.

Thanks to all who participated in the consultation. We look forward to your continued involvement as we progress this important project.