Cycleway plan

Re the letter Cycleway eyesore (Katikati Advertiser, December 27, 2018) from Rosalie Smith.

I wish to endorse the comments and conclusions expressed in the article.

In 2017 there was a rumour about a cycleway proposal along the walkay beside part of the Uretara estuary. A petition opposing the cycleway construction was organised and was signed by 127 people. The petition was not presented as the proposal did not appear to be going ahead. We now hear from various sources that there is a definite proposal to construct a 2.5 metre wide concrete cycle way along the estuary.

There has been no official notification from the council about this as far as I can see. There about 25 residents whose properties will be adjacent to the cycleway. None of these or other residents appear to have been contacted.

The walkway is an iconic feature, and much of its charm is because it is a long grassed area some of which is mowed and cared for by local residents. The walkway is presently enjoyed by walkers, dogs and cyclists, who have mostly told me that they like the grass and do not favour a concrete cycleway. I have seen no estimated cost for the cycleway but it could amount to $300,000 to $400,000. Who will pay? The residents of Katikati? Has a cost benefit analysis been done?

Near the eastern end of the walkway there is a steep incline and this requires immediate work to improve its safety, for both the present walkway, and the proposed cycle way.

The proposed cycleway should not be constructed before a meeting of residents has been called so they can be informed about the proposal and their questions answered.

JACK RIPLEY Katikati