DCC posts, removes statement saying planters to go
IT appears the Dunedin City Council has already decided to remove the ‘‘ugly’’ and ‘‘dangerous’’ planter boxes in Mosgiel, after mistakenly putting a statement online showing the next steps in the MosgielTaieri Safer School Streets project.
The planter boxes, which are a collaboration between the DCC, MosgielTaieri Community Board and local schools, have not met with the approval of residents.
More than 1460 people have signed a petition asking for them to be removed.
DCC group manager Jeanine Benson said on Wednesday the council was still deciding on adjustments to the trial road safety work, and details would be released next week.
However, a DCC statement which was posted online momentarily yesterday before being removed, said all planter boxes would be removed after feedback showed residents did not like them and they were not necessary to achieve safety outcomes.
The statement included alternative plans for the design of kerb buildouts in several Mosgiel and Outram streets which aimed to encourage slower speeds and awareness of crossing and walking activities.
It also said there were plans to install a cycle lane in Mosgiel and possibly temporarily close two street entrances.
‘‘A decision on whether to go ahead with this will depend on the outcome of residents’ opinions.’’
Petition creator Janine Tansley was delighted the boxes might be about to be removed, but was angry at the DCC’s communication about the issue.
She was irate the council appeared to have already made a decision on the boxes, but told media a decision would not be released until next week.
‘‘Why did they keep us in the dark? They’re supposed to work for us. It’s not about strategy, it’s about informing the residents about what’s happening.
‘‘And why have they already decided without the said consultation about what is going to be put in place?’’
She said many in the community were worried the changes may be ‘‘the same fish in a new bowl’’.
A DCC spokeswoman said some of the information in the statement was not up to date and the council could not comment any further until today.