Night-time ban aimed at bong-smoking dubsters

Scenes like this could be a thing of the past if the city council approves night-time restrictions on two Huntsbury Hill roads. Photo / Supplied

Night-time restrictions in a Christchurch suburb to curb excessive noise, drug use and littering are a step closer.

Residents on Vista Pl and Roystone Way in the suburb of Huntsbury Hill have been besieged by young drivers who park up at the scenic spots to socialise, listen to loud dub music and smoke cannabis.

On Friday, the Spreydon-Cashmere Community Board recommended the city council ban vehicles under 3500kg on the two roads between 10pm and 5am. The ban would not include vehicles owned by a resident or a "bona fide visitor".

Those caught parking there could be fined up to $750, with the ban enforced by police.

The city council will discuss the recommendation on November 9.

Board chairwoman Karolin Potter said the unanimous decision was a great step forward for the residents.

"We don't want to say this will definitely go ahead, but it is looking really good," she told Southern View on Friday.

City councillors Tim Scandrett and Phil Clearwater were not at the meeting but Potter said they were "on board".

She said it was not about banning young people from enjoying the view and listening to music, but protecting residents from unwanted disturbances. "We would like to think there are places around the hills to park, listen to music and enjoy the view, just where it is not disrupting residents," she said.

The proposal comes after the Southern View newspaper reported in June residents were fed up with youths congregating in vehicles on the scenic streets at night, playing loud music, smoking bongs, shouting and partying.

The public were consulted on the ban between August 9 and 25, and of 62 people who responded, 85 per cent supported the restrictions.

One critic said it would only move the problem to other parts of the city. Others said it was long overdue and applauded the restrictions.

It will cost about $2000 to put up signs and, if approved, the money will come from the city council's traffic engineering fund, Potter said.

- Star.kiwi