New option offered in Marine Parade Street renewal

A third option is being offered to the community for the upgrade of Marine Parade in New Brighton.

In May, Christchurch City Council asked the community to share their views on two proposed options for road, safety, and accessibility improvements on Marine Parade between Hawke Street and Bowhill Road.

Transport Planning and Delivery Manager Jacob Bradbury said following consultation, the Waitai Coastal-Burwood-Linwood Community Board asked Council to develop a third option for the project.

“The feedback from the community indicated that our first two options needed further development.

“Residents told us that they wanted the road renewed and increased safety for pedestrians and cyclists but not at the expense of on-road carparking.”

Many submitters noted that Marine Parade regularly experienced high demand for car parks from recreational visitors or during events.

Mr Bradbury said residents and community groups also asked Council to investigate a shared path along the beach side of Marine Parade for pedestrian and cycling facilities.

Council has now developed a third option that proposes an on-road two-way cycleway from Hawke Street to Lonsdale Street, and a shared path from Lonsdale Street to Bowhill Road.

Mr Bradbury said the new option aims to meet the community’s needs for Marine Parade, while remaining within the project’s budget.

This project is being funded by the Christchurch Regeneration Acceleration Facility (CRAF) fund, which is central government funding for transport projects.

Detailed information on the new option can be found at Letstalk.ccc.govt.nz/marineparade

Consultation will close on October 21. Construction is expected to start in 2025.