Significant progress has been made around Walters Road’s open drains, a safety issue because of the number of schoolchildren walking in the area.
Papakura Local Board Chair Brent Catchpole says underground pipes have been laid, kerb and channel put in place, and manholes and recharge pits have been sited.
“Contractors are now starting the next phase of works outside the military camp, including the shared pathway.”
Papakura Normal School pupils last year made up one of the youngest ever deputations to the Board, calling for action on their safety concerns after incidents involving children walking to and from school.
Auckland Transport and Healthy Waters came together to co-ordinate corrective work and Catchpole says there’s also progress on other projects across Papakura.
“A decking, paving and landscaping service agreement is being prepared around at Te Koiwi pond, where we are working with Papakura Marae, given it is already enhancing the pond area.
“A planting plan is being shaped and we expect willows and non-native vegetation to go early next year, with native planting quickly following.”
He says other environmental work includes reaching an agreement with the Beautification Trust to lead Pest Free Urban South Papakura, that has already seen rat traps distributed and locals advised on how to trap in their own backyards.
“While the Wai Care programme the Board supports is looking at engaging with more schools, Papakura Normal started its water education this term. There’s also been planning for more planting days for our Papakura Steam restoration project, with visits to prioritise sites for next season taking place.
“And our industrial pollution programme will see almost 100 businesses around the Otūwairoa / Slippery Creek visited early in the new year, while Manukau Harbour Forum induction packs are being prepared for the new Board term so that momentum isn’t lost.”
