[!ai]
Balanced approach supporting multiple transport modes with strong school safety focus. Prioritizes completing key connections like Mosgiel-Dunedin tunnels. Emphasizes community input but maintains some car-centric perspectives on parking access. Good on safety, moderate on mode shift.
Hi there,
Below is my reply to your questions. Some areas, I do not know what will be possible, accessible to councillors and what is off limits. I have done my best to answer as many as I could.
I support upgrading our traffic light systems to reduce unnecessary delays and congestion—especially through main routes like the one-way system and Andersons Bay Road. We need targeted intersection upgrades—like adding turning lanes or roundabouts—at known trouble spots in areas like Green Island, Mosgiel, and Kaikorai Valley. I support safe, practical cycling options in Dunedin that work for everyone. We need to complete the cycleway from Waihola to Dunedin and the tunnel from the Taieri to Dunedin to bring in tourists and valuable tourism dollars. I’d also like to learn more about urban cycling, as it’s an area I’m still getting familiar with. I’ll push for improved bus frequency, better shelters, and smarter routing—especially in underserved suburbs like Mosgiel and Fairfield—to make public transport a real option for more people. We need to try and reach a point where our public transport is well enough patronised that it is viable and economic. We need raised crossings, better lighting, and stronger speed enforcement around schools, hospitals, and shopping areas to keep pedestrians—especially kids and older people—safe. I support re-routing or restricting heavy vehicle traffic from local and residential roads. Places like Mosgiel’s main street shouldn’t feel like a freight corridor. I want genuine community input before major traffic or road layout changes are made. We’ve seen too many top-down decisions that don’t reflect what locals actually need.
My top priority for walking and cycling is safety and connectivity. I’ll focus on completing key links like the Mosgiel/Taieri–Dunedin connection, filling dangerous network gaps, and upgrading crossings, lighting, and school zones. Protected bike lanes on busy routes and better footpath maintenance will make active travel safer and more appealing. High-impact, low-cost improvements come first, with major projects pursued only alongside co-funding. This ensures progress without overburdening ratepayers.
My priority for public spaces is making them safe, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone. Quieter, traffic-calmed streets will reduce noise and danger, encouraging walking and cycling. George Street’s redesign should balance pedestrian life with practical vehicle access, recognising how difficult it can be to find a park. The Octagon should be a vibrant, all-weather gathering place with good shelter, seating, and activity. Accessibility must be built into every upgrade—smooth paths, lighting, and seating for all abilities. We must also address the challenge of homelessness in our public spaces with compassion and practical solutions so everyone feels safe and welcome.
Regards
Andrew Sutton.