Submission Details

Full Name:
Jo Wrigley
Business/Organisation (if applicable):
Waikato Environment Centre Trust t/as Go Eco
Date Submitted
2024-04-21 08:04:26

Walking and cycling improvements

What do you think we should do?

Alternative option: Continue to steadily improve walking and cycling connections, but over a longer time frame?

Do you have any comments on this?

As MPDC Urban and surrounding areas experience population growth and development we believe it is an opportunity to future proof and develop localised and connecting transport systems alongside bikeways that connect Te Aroha, Morrinsville and Matamata for low-emission transport options. In the face of the cost of living and climate crises, it is essential that people have equitable access to transport choices that are safe, affordable and low-carbon. Go Eco supports a systemic transition from car-centric transport planning to a transport system that prioritises public transport and active modes. Transport choices requires: ● A rapid, regular, reliable, public transport system that is genuinely competitive with private car travel ● A safe, well-connected network of active transport infrastructure ● Sustainable urban development to reduce the distances people need to travel Transport infrastructure must acknowledge the history of land confiscation for transport use as breaches of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. The redesign of our transport system must prioritise respecting and protecting taonga and sites of cultural and national significance, and be guided by iwi, hapū and whānau in this process. Equity must be central to this transition. Go Eco recognises that until better options are available, private car travel remains the only safe and reliable option for many people. This is particularly true for shift workers, low-income communities, rural communities and disabled communities.


Walking and cycling improvements

What do you think we should do?

Alternative option: Continue to steadily improve walking and cycling connections, but over a longer time frame?

Do you have any comments on this?

As MPDC Urban and surrounding areas experience population growth and development we believe it is an opportunity to future proof and develop localised and connecting transport systems alongside bikeways that connect Te Aroha, Morrinsville and Matamata for low-emission transport options. In the face of the cost of living and climate crises, it is essential that people have equitable access to transport choices that are safe, affordable and low-carbon. Go Eco supports a systemic transition from car-centric transport planning to a transport system that prioritises public transport and active modes. Transport choices requires: ● A rapid, regular, reliable, public transport system that is genuinely competitive with private car travel ● A safe, well-connected network of active transport infrastructure ● Sustainable urban development to reduce the distances people need to travel Transport infrastructure must acknowledge the history of land confiscation for transport use as breaches of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. The redesign of our transport system must prioritise respecting and protecting taonga and sites of cultural and national significance, and be guided by iwi, hapū and whānau in this process. Equity must be central to this transition. Go Eco recognises that until better options are available, private car travel remains the only safe and reliable option for many people. This is particularly true for shift workers, low-income communities, rural communities and disabled communities.


Additional playgrounds

Do you have any comments on this?

Greenspaces and parks are vital connectors for the well-being of people and nature. They are gathering, learning, play, exercise and resting spaces that are essential developments in vibrant, attractive urban places. We support continued development.


Roading

What do you think we should do?

Proposed option: Reduce our roading renewal programme to cut costs?

Any other comments on roading renewals:

We support the Council to advocate for increased Public Transport (reduce individual vehicles and congestion). A reduction in congestion benefits everyone including the business/industry sector.

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