Time is running out for residents and businesses to submit on a new cycleway proposed by Masterton District Council [MDC].
The cycleway, which is intended to promote cycling as a convenient and environmentally friendly means of transportation within the community, is set to connect the Masterton Netball Courts on Colombo Road to Kuripuni.
At least one business that would be affected by the proposed cycleway has raised concerns about its potential impact during MDC’s consultation process, which ends on June 19.
Barbara Playle and Tania Scott, who own the Chanel Court Motel on Herbert St, have two issues with the proposal, which would involve car parks outside the motel being converted into
a section of the cycleway.
The first is safety: “Being around the netball courts on a Saturday morning, it’s not safe for bikes – it’s such a busy area with so many vehicles. I wouldn’t let any of my grandchildren bike into that area” Playle said.
The second is the impact on their business and neighbours.
“We have built up a good clientele with Brittons, KiwiRail, and forestry crews,” Playle said, “and we have always prided ourselves in ensuring their vehicles are on our side of the road, so they’re not outside our neighbours when they’re starting up at 3am.”
While Playle and Scott are not against a new cycleway, they “wish the council would look at the alternatives”.
MDC has “worked hard to ensure people are aware of this project”, according to roading services manager Kaine Jaquiery, including face-to-face visits to businesses and organisations on the proposed route, and hand-delivering consultation material to all households in the affected area.
No final decision has been made and a detailed design won’t be developed until the public has had their say, Jaquiery said.
Submissions close at 4pm on Monday, June 19, with a final decision expected in September.
