November 30, 2005

Pohutukawa theme for improved Esmonde Rd corridor

North Shore City's infrastructure and environment committee has granted important approvals for the Esmonde Rd upgrade - keeping the project on track for spring 2006 completion.

Work will begin in mid-January on widening and landscaping Esmonde Rd between Lake Rd and the Assembly of God church.

Committee chairman, Tony Barker, says extensive landscaping will enhance the coastal location of Esmonde Rd and form a strong visual gateway to the Takapuna/Devonport peninsula.

"Pohutukawa trees will be planted in sizeable numbers on both sides of Esmonde Rd to create an appropriate visual theme in keeping with the scale of this key corridor.

"Some existing pohutukawa will be removed or replanted to allow widening to proceed, and many more will be planted. Where possible the most significant existing species will be retained, including those on the landmark Esmonde/Lake Rd intersection," says Councillor Barker.

Landscaping and lighting plans have been prepared in consultation with local residents. New lighting will enhance security and safety along the walkway from Barry's Pt Rd to the cycleway connection adjacent to the Assembly of God.

Planting along the coastal edge will be enhanced, and traffic island and berm areas will benefit from a mix of low native shrubs and groundcovers. Two small parks will be established on the corner of Eldon St and on the southern corner of the Lake Rd intersection.

The committee yesterday approved construction of a 12-metre footbridge across the Shoal Bay inlet, as part of the Esmonde Rd upgrade project. The bridge will incorporate mangrove imagery to match its surroundings.

The Esmonde Rd upgrade will:
* Retain the number of existing traffic lanes
* Create additional turning lanes to enhance flow for through-traffic
* Improve traffic safety through the introduction of raised median islands
* Link to Transit NZ's Esmonde Interchange project, and the proposed Akoranga bus station
* Incorporate cycle lanes in both directions.

Preparation for the widening is now under way. This work includes tree clearing to establish the new road boundary line, construction of a new timber retaining wall, power and water services relocation, and construction of a new roadside berm.

Pohutukawa theme for improved Esmonde Rd corridor November 30, 2005

North Shore City's infrastructure and environment committee has granted important approvals for the Esmonde Rd upgrade - keeping the project on track for spring 2006 completion.

Work will begin in mid-January on widening and landscaping Esmonde Rd between Lake Rd and the Assembly of God church.

Committee chairman, Tony Barker, says extensive landscaping will enhance the coastal location of Esmonde Rd and form a strong visual gateway to the Takapuna/Devonport peninsula.

"Pohutukawa trees will be planted in sizeable numbers on both sides of Esmonde Rd to create an appropriate visual theme in keeping with the scale of this key corridor.

"Some existing pohutukawa will be removed or replanted to allow widening to proceed, and many more will be planted. Where possible the most significant existing species will be retained, including those on the landmark Esmonde/Lake Rd intersection," says Councillor Barker.

Landscaping and lighting plans have been prepared in consultation with local residents. New lighting will enhance security and safety along the walkway from Barry's Pt Rd to the cycleway connection adjacent to the Assembly of God.

Planting along the coastal edge will be enhanced, and traffic island and berm areas will benefit from a mix of low native shrubs and groundcovers. Two small parks will be established on the corner of Eldon St and on the southern corner of the Lake Rd intersection.

The committee yesterday approved construction of a 12-metre footbridge across the Shoal Bay inlet, as part of the Esmonde Rd upgrade project. The bridge will incorporate mangrove imagery to match its surroundings.

The Esmonde Rd upgrade will:
* Retain the number of existing traffic lanes
* Create additional turning lanes to enhance flow for through-traffic
* Improve traffic safety through the introduction of raised median islands
* Link to Transit NZ's Esmonde Interchange project, and the proposed Akoranga bus station
* Incorporate cycle lanes in both directions.

Preparation for the widening is now under way. This work includes tree clearing to establish the new road boundary line, construction of a new timber retaining wall, power and water services relocation, and construction of a new roadside berm.

ENDS

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