Editorial: Riverside tramway a must for city

Yesterday, Wanganui moved one step closer to the realisation of plans that would see a tram running along the banks of our city's beautiful river.
The Tram Project Team has sought Wanganui District Council's approval to build tramlines on the riverfront, linking the existing Tram Shed on the corner of Moutoa Quay and Drews Avenue with the PS Waimarie berth.
If approval is granted, the tracks would mark the first stage of the tramline construction project.
It can only be hoped the council gives its approval to the project.
Failure to do so would be robbing this city of a fantastic chance to develop a new facility with appeal to both locals and tourists alike.
At a time when job centralisation and concern regarding issues such as the failure of the city's bid to host the national cycle centre of excellence are still in the forefront of many people's minds, there is an urgent need for the council to grasp this positive opportunity.
As the council's Strategy and Finance Committee chairman Rob Vinsen said yesterday, the proposed Moutoa Quay route best fits with council's Riverfront Development Plan, which in turn envisages Moutoa Quay eventually becoming a pedestrian-orientated open space. More important is the potential for the riverfront to be linked with the city centre.
As a city, we can't let this opportunity pass us by. Having a tram running along the riverfront could potentially give Wanganui a point of difference, something to make the city stand out. It could help attract tourists and instil a sense of pride among those of us who already live here.
Add to that the events which will likely springboard off next year's Vero vintage car rally, and there's a prime opportunity for Wanganui to establish itself as this country's heritage transport centre. It would be entirely in fitting with the city's existing character - a quick stroll up Victoria Ave presents no shortage of historic buildings.
There's another factor which is strongly in the project's favour also.
The first question anyone asks when it comes to these sorts of ideas is how it's going to be paid for. But as reported in the Chronicle earlier this year, the Wanganui Tramways Trust received funding three years ago from the Powerco Wanganui Trust, to go towards the project. It is hoped there's enough money available to carry out the entire first stage.
The tram project will be great for this city. We have the money.
All we need now is a council with the courage to step up and back it.
Feedback: editor@wanganuichronicle.co.nz