Council adopts Coastal Pathway plan

A multi-functional community pathway from Ferrymead to Sumner has received a significant boost with Christchurch City Council approving the amended Coastal Pathway Concept Plan.

The plan incorporates changes in response to public submissions and feedback from consultation on the draft Main Road Master Plan.

Revisions include the redesign of a section on Beachville Road, reinstatement of on-street parking along the northern side of Main Road in Redcliffs and further recognition of tangata whenua interest and values.

Councillor Yani Johanson says the 6.5km pathway linking Ferrymead and Sumner will add considerable value to the wider community.

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to leave a long-term legacy for our seaside communities and our city. I have no doubt it will enable a wide range of locals and tourists to enjoy an environmentally stunning journey along our beautiful coast.”

Fellow Hagley/Ferrymead Councillor Paul Lonsdale says: “The community vision outlined in the concept plan will result in a much-desired facility, benefiting a variety of users and aiding in the rebuild and recovery of the area.”

The joint project between Council and CCPG will provide a four-metre-wide pathway for pedestrians, cyclists and other non-motorised transport users.

Tim Lindley, CCPG chairman, says the pathway will help forge stronger community links.

“The pathway will be a fantastic opportunity for the people of Christchurch and visitors to the city to enjoy the uniquely stunning land and seascape our region has to offer. It will help boost local businesses, provide a safe off-road route for walkers and recreational cyclists, and have many places where our history, culture, art and environment may be shared and celebrated.”

Construction will be staged as funding allows with initial focus in those areas included in SCIRT’s rebuild programme.

The first basic part of the Coastal Pathway has been incorporated in the finished McCormacks Bay Causeway project, which opened on 1 November 2013. The work was incorporated into the Stronger Christchurch Infrastructure Team’s (SCIRT) repairs programme.

The Council committed $9.9 million towards the Coastal Pathway project in the Christchurch City Three Year Plan 2013-16. Additional funding arrangements will be finalised with the pathway group.

In July, Fulton Hogan contributed $250,000 worth of work to help form a sealed section of pathway running from Scott Park to the eastern end of the causeway.

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