Traffic plan has merit but more work is needed

I WAS very interested to read the proposals regarding Dunedin city’s transport issues for the future (ODT, 11.1.21).

It is evident that the bus system is not working as well as it could, judging by large, empty buses on most routes out of peak times.

While recently spending a year in the United Kingdom and Europe, I became an advocate for park ‘n’ ride facilities used in towns and cities throughout this region.

Satellite parking on the outskirts of central city — South Dunedin/Oval; North End and perhaps Logan Park. Utilising shuttle buses frequently into the centre to ease traffic. Train services from Mosgiel and Port Chalmers, with shuttles available to transport passengers around the city.

The bypass needs to be promoted more, not just for trucks but cars as well, so traffic can be eased through the centre.

Look to other countries where systems work and can be utilised here.

Fiona Bruce

Waverley

NZ democracy

MANY Kiwi commentators have been lording it over the United States, saying that the US is no longer intact as a democracy. These commentators need to be reminded that through all the chaos in the United States, its written constitution has maintained the checks and balances that our democracy in New Zealand lacks.

We in New Zealand do not have a written constitution, and as Sir Geoffrey Palmer warned in a talk to the Nelson Residents Association 18 months ago, the door is open for abuse of power by any government.

The introduction of ‘‘hate speech’’ laws by the current New Zealand Government will open the door to interpretation of whose political views are incorrect. Who is going to make that judgement when the police come knocking at your door? Dan McGuire

Nelson ..................................