25 Jun 2015

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A multi-million-dollar funding investment by central government will provide significant momentum to the delivery of a world-class network of cycleways in Christchurch, says the Council's transport spokesman.

Phil Clearwater, who chairs the Infrastructure, Transport and Environment Committee, believes the funding assistance for seven of the Major Cycle Routes couldn't have come at a better time.

"The Major Cycle Routes network is a significant piece of work that is integral to the 30-year plan for transport in the city. Being able to deliver $65 million of the $156 million programme over the next three years for a local investment of $23.5 million represents great value for Christchurch ratepayers."

Mr Clearwater says the Council hopes to confirm its local funding commitment to the project in the next few days through the Long Term Plan 2015–25.

The Urban Cycleways Fund contributes $19.04 million, while there is potential for a further $22.57 million from the National Land Transport Fund.

"Our transport plan for the future identifies that we can’t keep building roads that cost a lot to maintain and get clogged up. We need to provide alternatives and the Major Cycle Routes network is one of those," Mr Clearwater says.

Having this support from central government will help the Council deliver the first, high-priority sections of the Major Cycle Routes network. The seven routes selected for assistance provide important connections and were assessed by staff to be among the first to be built.

"They link the city centre with schools, the University of Canterbury as well as popular shopping, business and recreation areas," Mr Clearwater says.

"We have heard a consistent message from our community about the need to deliver safer options for people who choose to ride and to know this has support at central government level is an endorsement of our plans."

Don Babe, Chairman of cycling advocacy group Spokes Canterbury, describes today's announcement as a Goldilocks moment for people who want more choice in their transport.

"In addition to the Council listening to the wishes of ratepayers, central government has also realised that there are few transport projects that provide benefits to so many people as cycling infrastructure.

"It is hoped this expenditure will provide the infrastructure to encourage those potential cyclists who would like to ride but are concerned about safety to try cycling. If this includes a lot of school children, the impact will be felt by society for a number of years.
 
"Congratulations to our local and national government for making these steps."

Mr Clearwater says, "Everyone benefits if we can change the way people get around our city. However, to get the full benefit of the Major Cycle Routes we need to build the whole network and today's announcement will help the Council achieve its aim of reshaping the way people get around our city." 

A factsheet outlining the seven routes and funding proposals can be found on the Urban Cycleways Programme website.

There is information about the Major Cycle Routes on the Council's website, www.ccc.govt.nz/cycleways