Over half against 'linear park' idea

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

A majority of those who took part in this week’s Herald Web Poll were opposed to the idea of a “Linear Park” in Grey Street that would reduce traffic and create a multi-purpose site for community and cultural events.

Of the 270 people who took part in the poll, 58 percent (158 votes) were against the idea that sprang out of concerns about traffic volume in Grey Street, 96 participants (36 percent) were in favour and 16 (6 percent) were “undecided”.

Those opposed had some strong views.

“Another harebrain idea,” said one.

“Reducing traffic and creating a linear park seem like two different, good, but basically unconnected ideas. If having a park there closes it to traffic then surely the traffic will simply be rerouted elsewhere?,” said another.

“This is a main route for people going to Waikanae and Midway beaches. It would make more heavy traffic flow through the Waikanae Cut area and along Customhouse St — Absurd idea.”

“We need to fix both urban and rural road potholes first.”

“It’s a ROAD, end of story! Events should be held in parks and there are plenty that don’t get used.”

“Grey St is an important arterial route for the hard workers to access the industrial subdivision, packhouses and field work.”

“No - It is a TSUNAMI exit and an EMERGENCY SERVICES corridor.”

“It is the main road down to our beaches, pools, motels, surf clubs etc. Log trucks make Awapuni Road very busy and dangerous so adding all the extra vehicles that take the Grey Street route would be stupid.”

From those who thought it was a good idea, one respondent said: “As long as this key thoroughfare remains open to traffic, some development as a so-called linear park could be a boon.”

“Yes!!!! We need an area like this. Most cities do!”

“Anything to reduce traffic is good.”

“Would benefit the wider community to have a break from work and enjoy some lunchtime outdoors and walking.”

“Anything to breathe life into the inner city.”

“This would be a good inner city space. There are plenty of alternative routes for traffic to avoid this area if they wish.”

“Sounds a lovely way to improve our lives. Reduce the car-dominated streets!”

One of the “undecideds” put it this way — “More details needed”.

■ It should be pointed out that Tairāwhiti Adventure Trust, which is behind the Linear Park concept, is not proposing that Grey Street be completely shut off for motor vehicles.