[!ai]
Vision for active transport as natural first choice through practical planning. Prioritizes fixing gaps in routes, upgrading commuter connections, and ensuring accessibility. Emphasizes maintenance and community-informed changes.
Kia ora Spokes team,
Thank you for the opportunity to respond and for the work you do advocating for safer, more connected active transport in Ōtepoti Dunedin. I appreciate the chance to share my views and priorities with your audience.
My vision is a Dunedin where walking, biking, and using public transport are safe, convenient, and attractive options for people of all ages and abilities. Active transport should be the natural first choice not an afterthought and that starts with practical, community-led planning.
Specific actions I’ll advocate for:
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Fixing key gaps in existing cycle and pedestrian routes, especially unsafe pinch points.
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Integrating active transport with public transport, including secure bike parking at major stops and improved bus shelters.
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Supporting e-bike and e-scooter infrastructure, with clear guidelines and safety education.
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Partnering with schools and workplaces to promote active commuting and safe routes.
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Making sure roadworks and construction don’t ignore pedestrian and cycle safety too often footpaths are closed without proper alternatives.
Top priorities:
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Upgrading key commuter routes (e.g., from South D to the city, and NEV connections).
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Safe crossings and intersections especially where cycling routes intersect with heavy traffic.
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More separated cycleways and pedestrian-first zones in high-traffic areas.
In terms of urgency: these investments are critical. When we talk about safety, sustainability, and health outcomes, active transport plays a central role. I believe these should sit alongside core infrastructure as essential services, not optional extras. The long-term savings in public health, reduced congestion, and emissions make them worthwhile.
I want our public spaces to feel safe, vibrant, and welcoming places where people want to spend time, not just pass through.
Priorities:
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Maintenance matters too public spaces need to be clean, well-lit, and feel cared for.
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Traffic-calming measures in residential areas and tighter enforcement of speed limits.
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A thoughtful review of George Street and the Octagon to ensure accessibility, business viability, and public usability are balanced — what we build should work for everyone, not just tick boxes.
Accessibility should underpin all of this. Every change we make should consider those with mobility needs, visual impairments, and families with prams.
Thanks again for your work. I’m keen to support practical, community-informed changes that make Dunedin safer, more accessible, and future-ready.
Ngā mihi,
Doug Hall
Candidate for Dunedin Council