18 July 2023
Media: Local Democracy Reporter
Topic: Draft Rotorua Speed Management Plan
Enquiry
I am writing up a small story on the Rotorua Lakes Council draft Speed Management Plan 2023 now out for consultation.
National MP Todd McClay said the following, which I would like to put to the council and mayor for response please. It will also go to the transport minister and Waka Kotahi.
Todd McClay said there was no significant evidence that 50km/h was causing problems and nothing to support what was proposed would improve safety.
"It doesn't add up."
He was aware of a number of councils refusing to consult on the proposals. "It's not a priority."
He said National was committed to reversing the extensive reviews if elected.
He said a child on a pushbike would be breaking the law.
"What it will do is slow down all of Rotorua.
"I know many of our councillors are frustrated they have to do this."
He said what was proposed would only create confusion and frustration and the priority should be on fixing potholes.
Response
From Rotorua Mayor, Tania Tapsell:
While our Council is not comfortable with a blanket approach to the drastic reduction of speed limits, we recognise there is need to improve road safety in areas such as around schools and in the CBD.
Council is committed to delivering safe communities and reliable infrastructure. Health and safety will always be a priority but there is also a need for decisions that are practical and make sense.
We are required to consult and this is an opportunity for the community to express their views. Community feedback will inform the final plan that we’ll recommend to the Regional Transport Committee and Waka Kotahi.
There are other ways to improve safety on roads and I’ll continue to advocate for better maintenance of our roading network from Government.
From DCE Infrastructure and Environmental Solutions Stavros Michael:
Council is required to develop a 10-year draft speed management plan which will then feed into a draft regional plan that will also go out for consultation. While Council does not have the ability to change the Waka Kotahi mandate for 30km/h around schools, community feedback is sought on additional proposals in the plan. Consultation is open until Friday 18 August, for detailed information and maps, visit rotorualakescouncil.nz/smp