From 12 November 2023, the majority of remaining features from the Henderson Streets for People trial are set to be removed, marking the end of the trial that stirred both optimism and frustration among locals.
In 2021, Eke Panuku Development Auckland, in collaboration with Auckland Transport and funded by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, embarked on a bold venture tested to test a number of interventions to create more vibrant, walking-friendly spaces, less dominated by traffic.
This initiative aimed to not only enhance the quality of life for walkers and cyclists but also to gather real-time feedback and traffic data to inform future changes. By testing first, it allowed for changes to be made and real-time information to be gathered before committing large funds to permanent changes.
While the data collected during the trial period revealed some promising results, such as reduced vehicle speeds and volumes within the town centre, an improved sense of safety for cyclists and those walking, and minimal impact on overall business activities, it wasn’t all plain sailing. The trial had unintended consequences, including congestion which created frustration amongst locals.
Now, two years on, the majority of the trial's features have now reached the end of their life span and are scheduled for removal including:
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The hit sticks (temporary traffic lane dividers) and right-hand turn restrictions into and out of WestCity mall on Railside Avenue.
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The intersection roadway artwork on Great North Road / Railside Avenue / Ratanui Street.
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The planters and hit sticks on the corner of Great North Road / Ratanui Street.
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The shared path on Ratanui Street, including planters and sleepers. The road will revert to a two-lane road with an additional speed cushion installed in the reopened lane, to maintain safer speeds.
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The public outdoor dining (parklet) space outside 404 Great North Road.
Some trial features will remain a little while longer and others will become permanent:
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The roadway artwork located on Trading Place and Waitākere Lane will only be removed when Auckland Transport reseals the road in the future. This will help minimise additional removal costs, as the road surface has been assessed as being in good condition currently.
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The existing speed cushions at the intersection of Great North Road / Railside Avenue / Ratanui Street will remain to ensure lower speeds continue through the intersection.
Going forward, Auckland Transport will continue to progress their regional cycle network to enable Henderson to have better and safer connections for walking and cycling, dependent on securing future funding. Eke Panuku will invest in the town centre through projects such as the upgrade of Catherine Plaza, which support quality intensification and maximises benefits for locals from other investments including City Rail Link.
As the final trial features in Henderson are removed, it's important to reflect on the journey, acknowledging the challenges and looking towards the future. Henderson's move towards a more walking-friendly, thriving town centre remains a work in progress, with valuable insights gained from this trial guiding the way forward.
Next steps
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The removal and adaptations will begin on 12 November 2023 at night taking 2 days to be completed (weather dependent)
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Re-routing of traffic will be in place during this period, with active traffic management on-site
