The Riverpark Action Group has had success in its neighbourhood before. Now it wants safety lighting, reports Joanna Davies.
During the day, Riverpark Reserve is a walking place of choice for many people who live at the southern end of Massey. It's a shortcut for those living off Don Buck Rd to reach Universal Drive, and a nice stroll over the end of Swanson stream.
But, in the early mornings and evenings, when the entire park is dark, the path is busy with commuters going to and from the nearby bus stops.
Ian Miller, who lives near the park, says residents want lighting installed to make the walk safer.
"We want to install solar lights so that people can walk from Helena St to catch the buses safely. It is pitch-black down here when it's dark."
He would like to see lights placed through the park, as well as at each end of the footbridge over the creek.
Mr Miller and the Riverpark Action Grouphas asked Henderson-Massey Local Board to consider installing the lights.
"We had an agreement in principle with the former Massey Community Board that lighting would be included in the annual plan, but we wanted to remind the new board of this," he says. "If these things get ignored by the community they will be forgotten by everyone else."
Riverpark Action Group's chairwoman, Jacqui Ross, echoes Mr Miller's sentiments.
"We are trying to get improved lighting implemented in Riverpark Reserve as well as the installation of signage there," she says.
The group has had several other successes in the neighbourhood's parks: a community garden in nearby Woodside Reserve is being used by locals; and it organises clean-up days for Riverpark Reserve.
"We did have some success clearing out the willows, which was very satisfying."
Auckland Council's manager of local and sports parks, Mark Bowater, says lighting is included in the 2011-12 draft annual plan.
"Several new light poles will be erected to ensure the area is well lit at early night-time and at dawn for workers, school pupils and commuters," he says. "The Auckland Council's Safe Waitakere team and the police support the installation of lighting along the walkway for the safety of early night and morning users."
Mr Bowater says lights will be installed in November and placed on a timer.
"They will turn off at 9.30pm and come on at 6am. Leaving the lights on all night can attract other issues."
Best-made plans
Auckland Council will adopt the 2011-12 annual plan on June 28. About 600 of the 1750 people who lodged written submissions spoke at one of the 22 hearings held across Auckland during April and May.
Their responses will be considered before the plan is adopted, and this will set out the council's priorities and how they will be funded for the next year.
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