Students travelling to school in Flat Bush and Howick will now have safer journey options thanks to the completion of two road safety projects funded by Howick Local Board
The projects were successfully completed in January - Valderama Drive in Flat Bush and Paparoa Road in Cockle Bay, to enhance pedestrian safety, reduce traffic speeds, and create a more secure environment for school commutes.
Board chair Damian Light says, “The projects aim to enhance safety by providing safer crossing points for students at Mission Heights Primary and Junior College in Flat Bush, Cockle Bay Primary School, and Howick College, as well as for visitors to Paparoa Park, home to the local rugby league club in Cockle Bay.”
The board has also emphasised how important it is to be able to fund key safety projects.
Light shares, “With limited funding, it's essential to prioritise critical projects. We’ve used our budget to deliver temporary gravel footpaths, closing gaps and providing safer paths for children.”
The improvement for Valderama Drive in Flat Bush is important because the area has developed rapidly, but the transport infrastructure hasn’t kept up.
Light adds, “What were once minor roads and intersections now serve growing communities that need them to be safe and efficient.
“The board is also advocating for local road enhancements, intersection upgrades, technology to improve traffic flow, and better walking and cycling infrastructure, along with improved footpaths.
"Transport is more than just a way to get from A to B. It’s the backbone of a connected community. When done right it not only keeps our community safe, but it unlocks opportunities for employment, education, and recreation, and brings people closer together.”
Valderama Drive crossing.
Summary of infrastructure installed for Valderama Drive:
-
new raised pedestrian crossing to slow down traffic
-
improved drainage for better stormwater control
-
central islands to make crossings safer and shorter
-
tactile pavers to help visually impaired pedestrians
-
better street lighting
-
wider footpaths and pram crossings for more space
-
new signs to warn drivers about the crossing
Paparoa Road underwent similar improvements with the additional:
Paparoa Road crossing.
-
new 6.0m raised pedestrian crossing to slow traffic and improve safety
-
upgraded pram crossings on nearby Bledisloe Street for better accessibility.
Light says “Transportation is key to our community well-being and local economy. It connects people, supports trade, and provides access to work, education, and recreation. We will continue to advocate for funding to improve traffic safety and infrastructure. We’ll also push for enhanced public transport, especially in Flat Bush and Ormiston, ensuring better access and more services for the community.”
Planned for delivery in February / March 2025
-
Michael Jones Drive planned providing speed calming for residential street.
-
Ridge Road and Picton Street planned for safer access to Stockade Hill, with design improvements made in response to community feedback.
Approved in December 2024 for delivery in 2025 (subject to consultation)
-
Kerrykeel Drive providing safer crossing for Ormiston Primary School.
-
Flat Bush School Road providing safer crossing for Te Uho o Te Nikau Primary School.
Stay connected
Sign up to receive our Howick Local Board monthly e-newsletters.
