Nelson City Council is reviewing plans for a proposed East-West Cycleway that could result in the loss of approximately 208 of the 384 car parks along the route. According to Local Democracy Reporting, the project aims to link Waimea and Maitai Valley Roads for students and commuters, but the potential reduction in parking has prompted concerns from elected members regarding local business and residential impact.
Why the cycleway proposal is facing opposition
The primary point of contention for councillors is the scale of parking loss associated with the current concept. If the council pursues the “highest standard” of design, roughly 55% of parking along the route would be removed. Councillor Mel Courtney warned that the loss of parks on eastern Nile Street could trigger a “revolution” among residents, students at the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology, and local hospitality businesses. Councillor Sarah Kerby described the potential parking reduction as “political suicide,” despite her support for the project’s school safety goals. Mayor Nick Smith has stated a personal preference for avoiding any net loss of central city parking to support economic revitalisation.
Concerns over route geography
Beyond parking, councillors have questioned the steepness of the proposed path. Specifically, the incline of Trafalgar Street South has been flagged by members including Aaron Stallard and Matty Anderson as a potential deterrent for cyclists. Both councillors noted that steep gradients may discourage participation, with Anderson suggesting that younger cyclists in particular are likely to seek flatter alternative routes if the design is too difficult to navigate.
What could happen next
The project is currently in the conceptual phase, with no final design completed. Mayor Smith has directed council staff to evaluate an alternative route proposal submitted by the sustainable transport group Nelsust. This suggested path would prioritize flatter streets, such as Waimea Road and Rutherford Street, potentially reducing both the gradient issues and the total number of lost car parks. Staff have been tasked with investigating the feasibility of this alternative, while also gathering further data on tree loss and the impact of the route on traffic before the council makes a final decision. Further targeted consultation may occur if the council determines it is necessary to address community concerns.
Differing perspectives on cycling infrastructure
There is a clear divide between the council’s focus on parking retention and the perspective of cycling advocates. Kate Malcolm of Nelsust told Local Democracy Reporting that the focus on parking may be misplaced, arguing that a shortage of spaces could actually serve as an incentive for residents to adopt cycling. She expressed disappointment that the council’s discussion lacked stronger leadership in urging the community to move away from car dependency. Conversely, the council remains focused on balancing the practical needs of businesses and residents with the infrastructure requirements of the proposed cycleway.
