Fix the problem cycling areas first

If cycleways are to deliver real benefits to Wellington, you’d think cycling advocates would prioritise fixing dangerous cycle routes like Berhampore to Newtown first.

Instead, Island Bay, which has some of the widest streets in Wellington, has been selected as the first cab off the rank.

The only conclusion I can come to is that the council has a secret plan to use the initial cycleway investment in the Island Bay route to justify draconian measures such as the elimination of on-road parking in narrow arterial roads such as Kilbirnie Cres, to the detriment of residents.

Alternatively, before the council begins construction, it is essential that a city-wide plan be formalised for public consultation.

This city-wide plan should be about more than just the route.

We need answers to many other questions, such as ‘‘Can cyclists ride on the road when a cycleway is present?’’ and ‘‘Will pedestrian crossings that extend from the kerb be eliminated?’’ and ‘‘Should cyclists financially contribute to cycleway maintenance?’’. STEPHEN MOORE

Hataitai rationalising the branch libraries?

In a city with a good bus network, there are five branches, as well as the central library, within 10 to 15 minutes’ drive of my place.

Or stop pursuing the costly and foolhardy dream of extending Wellington airport’s runway. The hard-headed commercial shareholders don’t think it is worthwhile.

We could be spared the waste of money involved in creating a new cycleway down Island Bay’s main wide street.

And the zoo costs ratepayers millions of dollars a year: it confines large animals in small spaces and can’t even pass a market test, so how about the council serve both humanity and the financial interests of ratepayers and close it down?

Finally, fripperies like last year’s sandpit in Civic Square also spring to mind.

That was a list put together in five minutes. I’m sure the councillors have able staff at their disposal who could, with the right incentives, come up with a much longer and well-developed list of possible savings. MICHAEL REDDELL

Island Bay