Speed limits reviewed

Safety is the key reason Napier City Council (NCC) is thinking of changing the legal speed limit on some city roads.

NCC is legally required to review its Speed Limit Bylaw periodically. During August the council is running an online survey asking for feedback on 17 proposed changes.

This informal stage of consultation is part of the review process, says NCC team leader transportation, Robin Malley.

“We want to make Napier’s roads and streets as safe as we possibly can. We’re concerned enough about these particular roads, or sections of road, to want to change the limits, and we need to know if the community agrees.”

There is also an opportunity to provide feedback on other roads at the end of the survey.

The proposed changes include reducing the speed 300m either side of a school entrance during school terms at drop off and pick times, and on part of Marine Parade, to 30km/h; reducing the speed on Napier Hill to 40km/h and dropping the limit on the westernmost section of Prebensen Drive, from 100km/h, to 80km/h.

Because this bylaw is only reviewed every few years, it is important as many people as possible have their say, Robin says. Following the closure of the survey, and a report to council, if the existing bylaw is to be amended a formal consultation process begins.

This will give the community an opportunity to complete a formal submission.

The survey is accompanied by a StoryMap of the proposed changes. This is best viewed on a PC, laptop or tablet.

Anyone with limited internet access is able to call in at the Napier City Council Customer Service Centre on Hastings Street, or either Napier or Taradale Library, and ask for assistance.

■ To complete the survey: www.surveymonkey.com/ r/NapierSpeedLimits

■ To view the StoryMap: arcg.is/ 1uyTef