Western Heights cycleway construction progressing

Work continues on the Western Heights Schools Link cycleway with the Gordon Rd section almost completed. Photo/Supplied

Work is continuing on the Western Heights Schools Link cycleway with the Gordon Rd section almost complete.

According to the Rotorua Lakes Council, the poor condition of the kerb and footpath on Gordon Rd meant that section was prioritised ahead of the rest of the five blocks in the cycleway.

Contractors were now starting work on a new footpath on the western side of Thomas Cres opposite the school.

The new footpath will accommodate the removal of the easement behind the properties at 26 – 34 Thomas Cres, which is currently used as a walkway between Turner Drive and Leslie Ave.

The decision to remove the stormwater easement was made as a result of feedback from the community as part of the Western Heights reinvigoration project.

Community feedback also highlighted the need to slow traffic using Thomas Cres to make the area safer for all users but especially for children walking to and from school and those with mobility issues, the council said.

To help encourage slower driving changes to the road will include narrowing the roadway, construction of raised crossing platforms, applying road markings, and adding extra parking near the school entrance and exit.

Once the footpath on the western side of the road is completed contractors will move on to the next section of the Western Heights cycleway which will run along the eastern side of the road.

This section of the cycleway includes an upgraded rear entrance and exit for Western Height Primary School which will help to improve the safety of the drop-off zone and parking areas for parents and students.

Nearby residents have been informed by letter about the work and contractors will visit properties to advise residents of work taking place outside their homes.

Once completed this cycleway will become a link between Pukehangi and Fairy Springs Rds.

The council's Safe and Sustainable Journeys team have also been working with students in the area to deliver bike skills education and travel planning advice for students and parents and have sourced funding to deliver Bikes in Schools programmes for interested schools.

The council would like to hear from residents about future locations for extensions from the Western Heights cycleway. Feedback from locals has highlighted Steeles Lane as a potential location for a future minor link.

You can share your thoughts or suggestions for future minor links at www.cyway.nz or via email to cycling@rotorualc.nz.