Major Queen Street Works to Begin in 2017

Detailed design and an updated construction timetable for major underground pipe upgrades and the total replacement of the surface of Richmond’s Queen Street have been confirmed.

Minor works, including the replacement of a water main, will take place in October and November this year, signalling the start of the $9.5 million project to reduce the risk of flooding in severe rain storms and replace the street surface to a safer, more pedestrian-focussed design.

Extensive roadworks will begin in February 2017.

Tasman District Council Engineering Services Committee chairman Trevor Norriss said while it was originally envisaged the work would begin in August 2016, delaying the most disruptive roadworks until 2017 would reduce the cost and disruption of requiring a contractor to pack up and then re-establish before and after the holiday period.

“We had planned to begin the works, then shut down over summer when retailers are at their busiest. After discussions with businesses and landowners on Queen Street, we have decided it makes more sense to give the contractor a clear run at the major construction works in 2017,” Cr Norriss said.

“The project is going to take most of the 2017 to complete and there is going to be disruption to traffic, to businesses and the general public. We can’t avoid that – this is a much-needed upgrade that will significantly reduce the risk of flooding for properties along Queen Street, and businesses along there will remember the record floods we experienced in 2011 and 2013.

“In saying that, we will be working extremely hard to keep everyone informed of what is happening, and trying to minimise the disruption as much as possible.”

Cr Norriss said detailed design for the reinstated street was largely complete. Wide footpaths and a smooth continuous surface would make the street a pedestrian-friendly, accessible space and contribute to slow traffic speeds.

Detailed aspects of the design include:

• Zebra crossings at the Richmond Mall entrance, Sundial Square and Richmond Library

• Bus stops/shelters outside the Richmond Mall entrance and Noel Leeming/Arthur Wakefield Hotel

• Drinking fountains outside the Richmond Library and Pat’s Plaza, in addition to the existing fountain in Sundial Square

• Planting of 35-40 ornamental pear and titoki trees

• Upgraded LED street lighting

• Four modern interpretation boards

• Cycle and scooter stands

• New seating of similar design to benches in Sundial Square

“The detailed design to this point has focussed on the elements that affect underground services,” Cr Norriss said. “Over the next few months we will also be looking at confirming elements that don’t impact on the pipe replacements, such as public art, other types of seating and wayfinding signs to add colour and vibrancy.”

ENDS

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