AT moves swiftly to keep kids safe

A popular playground will be made safer for little feet with a zebra crossing, currently in its design phase.

Auckland Transport (AT) has released the design for a North Shore crossing that connects Takapuna Beach Playground to The Strand.

North Shore Ward Councillor Chris Darby made an official request to AT to investigate the case for a zebra crossing late last year, following concerns from parents for children’s safety.

These concerns were heard when AT confirmed in February to Mr Darby it supported the installation of a crossing, and had earmarked it for construction later this year.

Mr Darby said he appreciated AT had “moved swiftly” into the design phase of the crossing, a “small but important” project.

“Once we’ve nailed the design I’ll be just gently nudging AT to bring it up the complete list, but I’ll also ask them to extend the pedestrian crossing through the car park.

“We want to create a legible and safe journey line between the beach, playground, and the high street.”

Mr Darby said safety was key with more pedestrians visiting the area than ever before.

“It’s answering the safety issues that have been well articulated to me and others in that area… It’s all about giving priority to people.”

The area the zebra crossing will be installed. Photo: Nicole Barratt

He added there had been some slight confusion about the start date of the project.

“There was a bit of concern about it being 18 months away, [AT] never actually said that…It's not a question of it being 12 to 18 months away, it will be done when the budget becomes available, which is July 1.”

The design, released by AT last week, indicated the crossing would align with the walking route from Hurstmere Green up to Hurstmere Rd.

Currently a raised brick path leads to the playground through The Strand car park.

AT spokesman Mark Hannan said via email signs warning motorists of the possibility of children or pedestrians in the area had been installed.

“The planned zebra crossing and raised table will help slow speeds and will make the crossing point obvious to motorists.

“Auckland Transport is currently finalising the design and we hope to have the crossing and raised table in by Christmas,” the email said.

Forrest Hill parent Christian Shearer said he thought the crossing design was “a good idea”, as not all drivers viewed a raised path as a crossing, and stopped for kids.

The million-dollar playground opened last August.

The near-300 spot car park is located directly next to it.