Makeover planned for Queen St in Auckland's CBD

Caryn Wilkinson Reporter from Community News

A facelift is set to roll out on Queen St, in Auckland's CBD.

Wide boardwalks, seating and native plants in planter boxes will soon replace the plastic sticks and temporary footpaths on Queen St between Customs St and Shortland St.

Auckland Council has unveiled plans to remove emergency Covid-19 works in the area and create a pocket park on the corner of Queen St and Fort St.

Auckland mayor Phil Goff said Queen St was due for an upgrade.

“We want the street to be more people-friendly and attractive, and to become a place to visit, rather than just pass through,” he said.

“Last year, temporary measures were put in place by Auckland Transport to allow physical distancing during the pandemic. It’s now time for the yellow markers, stone blocks and painted asphalt to be replaced. "

Extended decking pavements, shrubs in proper planter boxes and street furniture will help change the look and feel of the area, Goff said.

These measures would be trialed before permanent changes were made following feedback from businesses, shoppers, visitors and residents, he said.

“Queen Street has taken a hit from COVID-19, with the loss of tourists, cruise ships and international students."

Goff said the council, businesses and residents needed to work together to help the area recover from Covid-19 and become a vibrant place to shop.

The upgrade will enhance other transformations including the refurbishment of the Chief Post Office, the creation of Te Komititanga, the new public space outside Commercial Bay, and Te Wananga, the new space being built over the water by the ferry building, he said.

Meanwhile, Aucklanders are being invited to give their feedback on a proposal to create bus lanes on sections of Queen St.

The changes are touted to improve reliability as more buses use the street during the next phase of the City Rail Link construction.

What do you think of the improvements to Queen St?

Which changes would you like to see there?

*Please put NFP if you do not want your comments used by Stuff.

People have until May 7 to have their say on the changes at:
at.govt.nz...