11 APRIL 2012

SUBMISSION TO KAIPATIKI LOCAL BOARD (KLB) ON DISCRETIONARY SPENDING PRIORITIES

Issues Covered -     

1. 1.     KLB  Funding

The NRA first raised the unsatisfactory state of KLB funding compared to all other Local Boards

Due to this lack of funding, NRA requests for funding for local projects have been deferred or not actioned.

However, in confirming a 2010 decision of the BNCB on fitness equipment for Little Shoal  Bay (LSB), KLB was able to find $80K, which raises the question about the criteria on which this and the original BNCB decision was made, particularly when a meeting on site on 17 November 2011 is reported as rejecting the proposal.

1. 2.     Justification Process

This year a survey was made of 255 local residents.  The survey form asked residents in which suburb they lived, and whether they travelled to LSB by bus or taxi, which would indicate that the survey was designed for a much wider audience.

Why was this survey necessary when the BNCB and the KLB had already made a decision?

A detailed analysis of the responses is required to determine, for example, how many of the affirmative respondents currently used LSB, how often, and would actually use the equipment.

1. 3.     KLB Spending Priorities

A cash-strapped KLB has been able to find $80k for a project which no resident has asked for, while projects which the community have requested, some for a long time, cannot be funded. 

Greater consideration needs to be given to residents’ preferences.

The NRA asks that the KLB reconsider the LSB fitness equipment project and allocate the $80k to projects which would benefit a much wider section of the community, such as re-sanding LSB, or advancing the construction of an all-weather ferry terminal at Northcote Point.

               Brian Plimmer

            Chairman

                Mob 021 922721

Draft Regional Land Transport Programme

from

              NORTHCOTE RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION INC. (NRA)

                                                                            March 2012        

Introduction:

 The NRA represents the interests of residents of Northcote covering the areas of Northcote Point and Northcote Central.

 We thank AT for the opportunity to make this submission, but register our disappointment at the short time frame available. Like most residents’ associations we are comprised entirely of volunteers, for whom four weeks is impractically short time to assess, consult and complete a submission on a lengthy and often complex document. We understand that this has been imposed by central Government but argue that this must be changed for future consultation.

 Our submission is in four sections – first a response to the general principles, second to the regional plans that are likely to impact on our constituents, third to proposals for our immediate area, and finally to the alternative funding proposals.

General Principles:

In this we refer to the statement of principles outlined on page 3.

NRA supports the proposition that ‘Transport strongly influences economic outcomes’. Auckland’s position as N.Z.’s major economic unit will increase in the years ahead and needs an efficient transport system to achieve this – ‘efficient’ for all participants including workers.

 We also support the proposition that ‘Transport enhances the city’s liveability’.  We note and support the position that this applies to all forms of transport. While public transport must play an increasingly important role, the reality remains that the geography and history of Auckland means that private transport will always carry a substantial proportion of peak hour travellers, and their rights should not be unreasonably diminished in the interests of public transport.

 We also support the principle that ‘A co-ordinated approach is necessary’, particularly given the difficulties of cross-city travel. At present it is impractical for a person living in Northcote and working, for instance in Penrose/Mt Wellington, as many do, to use public transport to and from work.

 Major Regional Projects

New Harbour Crossing :  NRA supports the expenditure committed in the 2012/3 period and expresses the hope that this will be sufficient, in conjunction with NZTA to get this important project moving at the earliest, to ensure completion by 2025. Traffic congestion is already acute in many areas of the North Shore and will only get worse given the desirability of the Shore as a residential option in the years ahead. The only way of substantially mitigating peak hour congestion is to get the new harbour crossing in place.

 NRA also argues for the tunnel option for reasons of environmental sensitivity, reduced impact on adjoining  residential areas such as Northcote,  and, to gain maximum benefit, particularly to residents of the Devonport/Takapuna area, the northern entrance should be at Esmonde Rd. This would minimise land reclamation and avoid further disturbance of Shoal Bay. There is growing pressure for the reduction of noise pollution from the existingbridge and a new tunnel crossing has the potential to minimise this problem by diverting much of the heavy traffic, providing the tunnel starts and exits at points which will be efficient for public and heavy traffic. The introduction of noise abatement panels along key sections of the bridge is also sought.

Reduction of heavy traffic on the bridge will have the additional benefit of prolonging the life of the bridge and the clip-ons.

City Rail Link:

 NRA supports this project as a means of enhancing the efficiency of existing rail services, movement around CBD and to maximise the value of a tunnel link across the Waitemata in the years ahead, by protecting a possible rail link to the North Shore.

Puhoi to Wellsford Motorway:

 We do not support this project. We believe it will simply move the current congestion around Waiwera/ Puhoi/Warkworth  progressively northward at vast cost to rate/tax payers. A major increase in passing lanes seems a reasonable compromise.

 Busway extension to Albany to Hibiscus Coast:

 We fully support this. The existing Northern Busway has relieved some of the peak hour on the Northern Motorway, but it remains a miserable commuting experience, particularly in the mornings. Siphoning off of more commuters further north seems to us to be a win-win for both motorists and busway passengers.

Airport Rail Link:

 NRA supports this only if strong evidence based on similar services in e.g. London and Sydney suggest it will be a financial success – and by corollary, not subsidised by ratepayers.

Local Transport Projects:

Cycleway/walkway over existing bridge:

While there has been significant publicity around the possibility of this project, the consultation undertaken so far has not included the NRA, and only minimal contact with residents who would be in the immediate link area or those in adjoining neighbourhoods. We have significant concerns about noise pollution, rubbish, vandalism and the like and insist that a full and balanced consultation be undertaken before any decision is made. Obviously an economic analysis is also necessary based on similar projects in similar cities ( e.g Sydney, where our understanding is that the bridge  walk ( cycle?) way gets very little use.

Onewa Rd/ Queen St/ Lake Rd/ Sylvan Ave Traffic Management:

This is an issue of immediate and deep concern to us.  NRA supports the importance of bus transport in this highly congested roading network. However, we challenge the balance between the rights of buses and private motorists.  We submit that a ‘zero-base’ study into optimisation of traffic productivity, including consideration of ‘fairness’ is warranted for at least sthe following reasons:

1. The ‘decongestion’ of St Mary’s Bay re-opens the possibility of continuing the T3 lane across the Onewa Road interchange, with merging shifted from lower Onewa Road to the Bridge approach where there is more space, higher speeds and considerable interchanging anyway.
2. The statistics used by NSCC and AT to justify retention of T3 are very limited and may well have changed. Moreover, the projected difference in productivity between T3 and T2 was very small and took no account of an increase in car-pooling if T2 was established.
3. Northbound traffic toward the bottom of Onewa has to remain in the general lane almost until Sylvan Ave. If they could be fed into the T3 lane earlier it would help de-congest at least the entrances of Lake and Queen Sts.
4. No research has been undertaken into the destinations of general lane users. We argue that a significant number work outside the CBD or Takapuna making the bus service a non-option.   Thus they are being unreasonably ‘punished’ to favour bus lane users. We consider that because of the current congestion on Onewa Road at peak hours, the vast majority of people who can use public transport are already doing so.
5.  Traffic light phasing for Lake, Queen and Sylvan outside peak hours seems to heavily favour Onewa Rd, often when there is little if any traffic on it. We believe it is reasonable to ask for a re-examination of these timings to fairly distribute egress from these busy side roads.

Ferry Services to Northcote/ Birkenhead/ Upper Harbour:

Consistent with our overall support  for public transport we support the up-grading of terminals at Beachaven and Northcote. However, we submit that the potential for increased patronage will be better realised if these projects are undertaken as a matter of urgency, both for patrons of the services themselves and long-suffering users of Onewa Rd.  The small amount allocated for the Northcote terminal in 2017/18 is unacceptable. If AT wants us to use more public transport, make it more usable and reliable, and quickly!

Of immediate concern is the lack of weather protection at Northcote for both passengers and ferries themselves. While it’s hindsight, it now seems obvious that when the first up-grade of the Northcote terminal was undertaken, the mooring area should have been re-located to the NE of an extended pile line and some weather protection added ( e.g. a couple of lines of piles) to avoid disruption during strong SW winds . We strongly urge that consideration be given to this.

 NRA notes and applauds the significant increase in patronage of ferries in the past year and argues that this warrants additional trial services, particularly outside peak hours at ‘user- friendly’ times. For instance, in response to a request for a trial of late evening services on Friday and Saturday a 10.15 ferry has been added – but such a time is virtually no use to moviegoers, surely a major proportion of the late night potential – 10.30pm or 10.40pm would surely realise more of the potential.

Bus Services:

While the frequency of core bus services on Onewa Rd is generally satisfactory, we note that outside peak hours services to Northcote Pt South are virtually non-existent. Furthermore at some time in the recent past BBC decided to terminate services at the roundabout at the top the rise instead of the terminal itself. This obviously demotivates passengers from further south. Also, in the event of non-service to the Northcote terminal due to bad weather (a not uncommon situation) passengers bussed from Birkenhead are also dropped at the top of the hill, when at least half will have their cars parked toward the bottom, thus having to walk in inevitably inclement conditions when they are already delayed.  We ask that BBC be instructed to terminate all Northcote Pt South Services at the terminal entrance.

Alternative Transport Funding

NRA accepts that existing funding both from AC and central Govt. is inadequate and that alternative sources need to be found. In general we support the principle of ‘user pays’ as long as this is applied fairly across the board and not just to users of new services, particularly those which create benefits for on-going user of ‘old’ services.

NRA supports:

• Development contributions
• Tolling of new roads ( and old roads where the new one provides a benefit)
• Network charging
• Visitor and Airport taxes ( we agree with the plan argument that many/most other big cities recover revenue from tourists in this way)provided they are applied to all airports.

      NRA does not support:

• General rates funding ( unfair to non-users)
• Targeted rates ( ditto)
• Tax increment financing ( ditto)
• Regional fuel tax ( ditto)
• ·        Congestion charging (this places an unfair burden on people who work in e.g CBD but have no access to public transport or car pooling).

Thank you.

THE NORTHCOTE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION CONFIRMS ITS WISH TO SPEAK TO THESE SUBMISSIONS.

Presented on behalf of the Northcote Residents Association Inc.

Brian Plimmer                                                                                                              P.O. Box 36386

Chairman                                                                                                                      Northcote 0748     

Mob 021922 721    b.plimmer@clear.net.nz

The Draft Long Term Plan  2012-2022

from

                   Northcote Residents’ Association Inc. (NRA)

                                                                               March 2012

Introduction:

 The NRA represents the interests of residents of Northcote covering the areas of Northcote Point and Northcote Central.

 We thank AC for the opportunity to make this submission, but register our disappointment at the short time frame available. Like most residents’ associations we are comprised entirely of volunteers, for whom four weeks is impractically short time to assess, consult and complete a submission on a lengthy and often complex document. We understand that this has been imposed by central Government but argue that this must be changed for future consultation.

The NRA has generally confined its comments to issues of direct concern to Northcote residents. Some of these points have been made in previous submissions.

Rate Increases

These have to be equitable and affordable, and AC needs to reduce its spending to ensure that its rates rises do not exceed 4%pa.

Kaipatiki Board Funding

The Association’s earlier submissions highlighted the huge discrepancy in the proposed allocation of Capital Expenditure, and focussed on the totally inadequate allocation to the KLB compared with other Local Boards.

The KLB is now echoing our concerns and this serious situation needs to be addressed through much greater transparency about funding sources and uses, and a fairer allocation (based on population) to the KLB.

Heritage Issues

It is important that sensitive urban design which builds on and enhances local character and heritage are undertaken not only in the development areas

The KLB has two of three North Shore heritage zones within its boundaries, and the Association is concerned to ensure that these are fully protected, and that the detrimental decisions made in connection with planning consents for 83 Hinemoa Street, Birkenhead, cannot be repeated.

Highbury Development

The NRA is firmly of the opinion that any changes in Birkenhead Centre must be heritage- sensitive.  The Association therefore opposes any plan changes which would allow out-of-character high-rise buildings in the Centre.

Little Shoal Bay and Halls Beach

The NRA totally endorses previous submissions which seek KBL and Council commitment to long-planned construction of groynes and resanding of Little Shoal Bay and Halls Beach. These important beach areas are well overdue for some seriously needed restoration, and the NRA is looking for commitment from the KLB and Council, similar to that proposed for beaches on the southern side of the harbour. There appears to be no provision for these long-sought improvements in the KLB plan.

Stokes Point and Te Onewa Reserve

The Association strongly supports the implementation of the /Te Onewa Pa / Stokes Point Conservation Plan recently adopted by the KLB. This has been long awaited, as the Management Plan was adopted by the North Shore City Community Parks and Reserves Committee in 2005.. We seek as a priority that the improvements and physical works are undertaken. It is of concern that this heritage area not only continues to be neglected but is deteriorating, with further slips, unsafe paths and restricted public access.

There is a pressing need for the improvements provided for in the plan including safe, permanent and consistent fencing (there has been temporary fencing for a number of years); remedial works and restoration of access on the east side; improved pathways on the west; general enhancement of the reserve; and interpretive signage recognising the heritage significance of the area.

Northcote Centre Redevelopment.

The NRA notes that “the planning has been done and that now is the time for action.

Because of its past involvement in the development of these plans, the NRA requests that it be kept informed of developments well in advance of any implementation.

Northcote War Memorial Hall

The NRA is very pleased that after some six years of working with the RSA to achieve the return of this Hall to its intended use and functions, it is scheduled to be handed back some time in June 2012.

Transport:

NRA supports the proposition that ‘Transport strongly influences economic outcomes’. Auckland’s position as N.Z.’s major economic unit will increase in the years ahead and needs an efficient transport system to achieve this – ‘efficient’ for all participants including workers.

 We also support the proposition that ‘Transport enhances the city’s liveability’.  We note and support the position that this applies to all forms of transport. While public transport must play an increasingly important role, the reality remains that the geography and history of Auckland means that private transport will always carry a substantial proportion of peak hour travellers, and their rights should not be unreasonably diminished in the interests of public transport.

 We also support the principle that ‘A co-ordinated approach is necessary’, particularly given the difficulties of cross-city travel. At present it is impractical for a person living in Northcote and working, for instance in Penrose/Mt Wellington, as many do, to use public transport to and from work.

 Major Regional Transport Projects

New Harbour Crossing :  

NRA supports the expenditure committed in the 2012/3 period and expresses the hope that this will be sufficient, in conjunction with NZTA to get this important project moving at the earliest, to ensure completion by 2025. Traffic congestion is already acute in many areas of the North Shore and will only get worse given the desirability of the Shore as a residential option in the years ahead. The only way of substantially mitigating peak hour congestion is to get the new harbour crossing in place.

 NRA also argues for the tunnel option for reasons of environmental sensitivity,  reduced impact on adjoining  residential areas such as Northcote,  and, to gain maximum benefit, particularly to residents of the Devonport/Takapuna area, the northern entrance should be at Esmonde Rd. This would avoid minimise land reclamation and further disturbance of Shoal Bay. There is growing pressure for the reduction of noise pollution from the existing bridge and a new tunnel crossing has the potential to minimise this problem by diverting much of the heavy traffic, providing the tunnel starts and exits at points which will be efficient for public and heavy traffic. The introduction of noise abatement panels along key sections of the bridge is also sought.

Reduction of heavy traffic on the bridge will have the additional benefit of prolonging the life of the bridge and the clip-ons.

City Rail Link:

 NRA supports this project as a means of enhancing the efficiency of existing rail services, movement around CBD and to maximise the value of a tunnel link across the Waitemata in the years ahead, by protecting a possible rail link to the North Shore.

Puhoi to Wellsford Motorway:

 We do not support this project. We believe it will simply move the current congestion around Waiwera/ Puhoi/Warkworth  progressively northward at vast cost to rate/tax payers. A major increase in passing lanes seems a reasonable compromise.

 Busway extension to Albany to Hibiscus Coast:

 We fully support this. The existing Northern Busway has relieved some of the peak hour on the Northern Motorway, but it remains a miserable commuting experience, particularly in the mornings. Siphoning off of more commuters further north seems to us to be a win-win for both motorists and busway passengers.

Airport Rail Link:

 NRA supports this only if strong evidence based on similar services in e.g. London and Sydney suggest it will be a financial success – and by corollary, not subsidised by ratepayers.

Local Transport Projects:

Cycleway/walkway over existing bridge:

While there has been significant publicity around the possibility of this project, the consultation undertaken so far has not included the NRA, and only minimal contact with residents who would be in the immediate link area or those in adjoining neighbourhoods. We have significant concerns about noise pollution, rubbish, vandalism and the like and insist that a full and balanced consultation be undertaken before any decision is made. Obviously an economic analysis is also necessary based on similar projects in similar cities ( e.g Sydney, where our understanding is that the bridge  walk ( cycle?) way gets very little use.

Onewa Rd/ Queen St/ Lake Rd/ Sylvan Ave traffic management:

This is an issue of immediate and deep concern to us.  NRA supports the importance of bus transport in this highly congested roading network. However, we challenge the balance between the rights of buses and private motorists.  We submit that a ‘zero-base’ study into optimisation of traffic productivity, including consideration of ‘fairness’ is warranted for at least the following reasons:

1. The ‘decongestion’ of St Mary’s Bay re-opens the possibility of continuing the T3 lane across the Onewa Road interchange, with merging shifted from lower Onewa Road to the Bridge approach where there is more space, higher speeds and considerable interchanging anyway.
2. The statistics used by NSCC and AT to justify retention of T3 are very limited and may well have changed. Moreover, the projected difference in productivity between T3 and T2 was very small and took no account of an increase in car-pooling if T2 was established.
3. Northbound traffic toward the bottom of Onewa has to remain in the general lane almost until Sylvan Ave. If they could be fed into the T3 lane earlier it would help de-congest at least the entrances of Lake and Queen Sts.
4. No research has been undertaken into the destinations of general lane users. We argue that a significant number work outside the CBD or Takapuna making the bus service a non-option.   Thus they are being unreasonably ‘punished’ to favour bus lane users. We consider that because of the current congestion on Onewa Road at peak hours, the vast majority of people who can use public transport are already doing so.
5.  Traffic light phasing for Lake, Queen and Sylvan outside peak hours seems to heavily favour Onewa Rd, often when there is little if any traffic on it. We believe it is reasonable to ask for re-examination of these timings to fairly distribute egress from these busy side roads.

Ferry Services to Northcote/ Birkenhead/ Upper Harbour:

Consistent with our overall support  for public transport we support the up-grading of terminals at Beachaven and Northcote. However, we submit that the potential for increased patronage will be better realised if these projects are undertaken as a matter of urgency, both for patrons of the services themselves and long-suffering users of Onewa Rd.  The small amount allocated for the Northcote terminal in 2017/18 is unacceptable. If AT wants us to use more public transport, make it more usable and reliable, and quickly!

Of immediate concern is the lack of weather protection at Northcote for both passengers and ferries themselves. While it’s hindsight, it now seems obvious that when the first up-grade of the Northcote terminal was undertaken, the mooring area should have been re-located to the NE of an extended pile line and some weather protection added ( e.g. a couple of lines of piles) to avoid disruption during strong SW winds . We strongly urge that consideration be given to this.

 NRA notes and applauds the significant increase in patronage of ferries in the past year and argues that this warrants additional trial services, particularly outside peak hours at ‘user-friendly’ times. For instance, in response to a request for a trial of late evening services on Friday and Saturday a 10.15 ferry has been added – but such a time is virtually no use to moviegoers, surely a major proportion of the late night potential – 10.30 or 40 would surely realise more of the potential.

Bus Services:

While the frequency of core bus services on Onewa Rd is generally satisfactory, we note that outside peak hours services to Northcote Pt South are virtually non-existent. Furthermore at some time in the recent past BBC decided to terminate services at the roundabout at the top the rise instead of the terminal itself. This obviously demotivates passengers from further south. Also, in the event of non-service to the Northcote terminal due to bad weather (a not uncommon situation) passengers bussed from Birkenhead are also dropped at the top of the hill, when at least half will have their cars parked toward the bottom, thus having to walk in inevitably inclement conditions when they are already delayed.  We ask that BBC be instructed to terminate all Northcote Pt South Services at the terminal entrance.

Alternative Transport Funding

NRA accepts that existing funding both from AC and central Govt. is inadequate and that alternative sources needs to be found. In general we support the principle of ‘user-pays’ as long as this is applied fairly across the board and not just to users of new services, particularly those which create benefits for on-going user of ‘old’ services.

NRA supports:

• Development contributions
• Tolling of new roads ( and old roads where the new one provides a benefit)
• Network charging
• Visitor and Airport taxes ( we agree with the plan argument that many/most other big cities recover revenue from tourists in this way)provided they are applied to all airports.

      NRA does not support:

• General rates funding ( unfair to non-users)
• Targeted rates ( ditto)
• Tax increment financing ( ditto)
• Regional fuel tax ( ditto)
• Congestion charging ( this places an unfair burden on people who work in e.g CBD  but have no access to public transport or car-pooling)

Thank you.

THE NORTHCOTE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION CONFIRMS ITS WISH TO SPEAK TO THESE SUBMISSIONS.                                                                       

Presented on behalf of the Northcote Residents Association Inc.

Brian Plimmer                                                                                                               P.O. Box 36386

Chairman                                                                                                                       Northcote  0748                        

Mob 021922 721    b.plimmer@clear.net.nz

NEWSLETTER OF THE NORTHCOTE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION (INC)      

KEEPING YOU IN TOUCH!                                                                   March 2012

Since the last Newsletter, the Executive have been actively involved in a number of important issues of interest to residents.

In this issue –

1. 1.      Northcote War Memorial Hall
2. 2.      Submissions on Auckland Long Term Plan 2012-2022
3. 3.      Rate Increases
4. 4.      Kaipatiki Local Board Funding
5. 5.      Northcote/Birkenhead Intensification
6. 6.      Onewa Road T3 Lane and Traffic Light Phasing.
7. 7.      Website Upgrade
8. 8.      Membership and Subscriptions
9. 9.      Feedback

NORTHCOTE WAR MEMORIAL HALL:

In response to the news that the Kaipatiki Community Facilities Trust would be relocated from the Northcote War Memorial Hall in Rodney Road, the Association issued the following press release:-

RETURN OF NORTHCOTE WAR MEMORIAL HALL WELCOMED.

The Northcote Residents Association warmly welcomes the announcement that permanent accommodation has been found for the Kaipatiki Community Facilities Trust, and that the Trust will be vacating the Northcote War Memorial Hall in the next two months.      

Association Chairman, Brian Plimmer, said “this is the culmination of more than six years work, during which the Northcote Residents Association has been supporting the Northcote Returned Servicemans Club in their endeavours to have the Hall returned to its intended use. The announcement of this long overdue move means that the perseverance of the many people who have been pressing for it has finally been rewarded.

Urgent consideration has to be given to the renovation and upgrade of the Hall, and its future use and management, to ensure that it once again becomes and remains a public hall.

Since this announcement, the NRA, with the RSC, has begun on a draft management plan for the hall, covering its ongoing use and maintenance.

We understand that it will be 2-3 months before the Hall is fully available, however it should be possible to hold meetings there.

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN USING THE HALL?

Previous surveys have indicated that a number of organisations and individuals were interested in using the Hall.  If you or your organisation are looking for a hall to rent, please contact the Association on its website www.nra.org.nz and complete the “ Interested in the Hall” form, or email it b.plimmer@clear.net.nz.  Or ring me – 4199429

SUBMISSION ON AUCKLAND’S LONG TERM PLAN   2012-2022:

The Association has just made a submission on behalf of residents on matters of concern with the above plan. Transport issues, including the early need for a future tunnel harbour crossing, and an all-weather Northcote Point ferry terminal and improved services, feature strongly,

Copies of the submissions are attached.

We would welcome your comments.

RATES INCREASES:

In our submissions the NRA urged that any rate increases be equitable and affordable, and be accompanied by reductions in spending.

KAIPATIKI LOCAL BOARD (KLB) FUNDING:

Since pointing out the problem early in 2011, the NRA has made a number of submissions expressing concern at the lack of funding for the KLB, the latest being last week.

Much greater transparency about the funds allocation process, and a fairer allocation on the basis of population has been requested.

NORTHCOTE/BIRKENHEAD INTENSIFICATION:

A leaked report in January 2012, about proposals on how to deal with future population growth in Auckland, raised the possibility of  highrise apartment blocks around Little Shoal Bay, from The Wharf to Birkenhead Point and beyond. A meeting of residents called by the KLB made its objections to such a plan very clear, and the KLB have subsequently passed these views back to Auckland Council.

The NRA has reinforced these concerns in its submissions, emphasising the need to respect the heritage nature of the area.

ONEWA ROAD T3 LANE AND TRAFFIC LIGHT PHASING:

Continuing complaints about excessive and unnecessary delays in accessing lower Onewa Road to the motorway have resulted in the NRA requesting a review of the only remaining T3 lane in Auckland and traffic light phasing.

WEBSITE UPGRADE:

The website upgrade has been completed and  it can be viewed on www.nra .org.nz.

If you would like to advertise your business etc, please contact us for details .

MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTIONS:

The NRAs financial year ends on 31^st march 2012.

A very active year has put some pressure on financial resources (not to mention Executive time).There a number of unpaid subscriptions. If you still owe your sub, a cheque to PO Box 36386 Northcote, or direct credit to a/c 115200-0032202-11 for $20.00 would greatly assist.

FEEDBACK:

The Executive welcome input and comment from residents about any of the above or any other subject

Brian Plimmer

Chairman

Ph 4199429

RETURN OF NORTHCOTE WAR MEMORIAL HALL WELCOMED.

The Northcote Residents Association warmly welcomes the announcement that permanent accommodation has been found for the Kaipatiki Community Facilities Trust, and that the Trust will be vacating the Northcote War Memorial Hall in the next two months.

Association Chairman, Brian Plimmer, said “this is the culmination of more than six years work, during which the Northcote Residents Association has been supporting the Northcote Returned Servicemans Club in their endeavours to have the Hall returned to its intended use. The announcement of this long overdue move means that the perseverance of the many people who have been pressing for it has finally been rewarded.

Urgent consideration has to be given to the renovation and upgrade of the Hall, and its future use and management, to ensure that it once again becomes and remains a public hall. The Returned Servicemans Club and the Association have demonstrated their strong interest in the future of the Hall, and wish to be fully involved in this process.”

He went on to say “The Association is reviewing its draft management plan for the Hall in the light of recent developments, and will be making it available in the very near future. Further, we have a list of parties who have previously expressed an interest in using the Hall, and this list is being updated.

In the meantime, we propose that the forthcoming ANZAC Day service would be an appropriate occasion to publicly “hand back” the hall to the RSC and residents, even if it hasn’t been finally evacuated”.

ENDS

For more contact Brian Plimmer

b.plimmer@clear.net.nz

Mob 021 922721         

Minutes of the Annual General Meeting, held at 7.30 pm on Monday 27^th June 2011, at the Tongan Methodist Hall, Stafford Road, Northcote Point.

The meeting was opened by Chair Brian Plimmer, who welcomed 46 members and special guests Hon. Jonathan Coleman, MP for Northcote, Grant Gillon (KLB) and Vivienne Keohane (also KLB).

Apologies: Tony and Dinah Holman, John Gillon, Rod Brown.

Minutes of 2010 AGM

The minutes had been circulated and on the website, and It was resolved

”THAT THE MINUTES OF THE 2010 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING BE TAKEN AS READ AND SIGNED AS A TRUE AND CORRECT RECORD OF THAT MEETING”.

Reports

Chairman’s Annual Report

The Chairman’s annual report was presented (as per the attached copy).

It was resolved

“THAT THE CHAIRMANS 2010-2011 REPORT BE RECEIVED.”

NRA Website

David Innes explained that the re-development of the NRA website had been delayed because of the different  approaches proposed by potential suppliers. The Executive were considering a generous offer from a member to update the website free of charge, and it was scheduled for completion within the next two months.

New Harbour Crossing

Brian Plimmer briefed the meeting on various developments that had taken place since public meetings in February and May. Much of this had taken place in collaboration with the St Mary’s Bay Residents’ Association. Key points were as follows:

• General agreement that a bridge would cause major disruption and have negative impact on the environment, hence overwhelming preference for a tunnel (98% of survey respondents in favour of a tunnel)
• North Shore exit to be at Esmonde Road, not Onewa Road
• Opposition to tolling – the new crossing would be part of State Highway One, and thus should be paid for by Government
• 20 year time span seen as too long – driven by the engineering life of the bridge, rather than traffic conditions, even at present
• A meeting would be held with North Shore MPs, July 15^th, coordinated by Hon. Jonathan Coleman
• The first draft of the Auckland Council Plan, including its position on a new harbour crossing is due in August, with public submissions to follow.

Change to NRA Rules

Changes to the rules as proposed by the Executive and circulated by email and posted on the NRA website were challenged by Ian Millar and Anne Du Temple as being unconstitutional on the grounds of failure to meet the 21 day notice requirement. Further, circulation to some members was less than two days before the meeting.

The Chairman stated that the notice required by the existing rules had been complied with.  However, it was conceded that some members may not have received the letterbox notice or that the email notice may have missed the two day notice of meeting requirement.

Ian Millar also took exception to the fact that rule changes proposed by him had not been received by the Secretary. The Chairman confirmed that they had not been received by the Secretary, let alone with 21 days, but reminded Mr Millar that the amended rules contained changes which were designed to meet his concerns about membership eligibility, and that he had been advised that his proposal regarding open meetings would be voted on at the meeting.

In the circumstances, the meeting agreed that all rule changes be deferred and re-presented to members at a later date.

Election of Executive Members.

The Chairman called for nominations for the Executive for the 2011/12 year.

Nominations were received for Carol Brown, Kevin Clark, David Innes, Ian Millar, Brian Plimmer, Merlene Plimmer, Werner Schmidt and Lucy Whineray.

Since nominations were within the maximum number allowed by the rules, the Chairman declared the above members elected to the Executive, subject to Mr Clark being a financial member.

Financial Statement

This was presented by Merlene Plimmer (copy attached).

It was resolved”

“THAT THE UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31^ST MARCH 2011 BE ADOPTED”

ANZAC Bridge presentation

Kevin Clark, part of the ANZAC Bridge group, presented the background to this option to the meeting.

Chairman Brian Plimmer explained that after two public meetings held in Northcote on the matter, there was near-unanimous support for a tunnel from Esmonde Road to Britomart. This position was reached in collaboration with St Mary’s Bay Residents’ Association, and it proposed that the first stage of the tunnel be for commercial traffic only. Further, he considered it unlikely that this preference, which was different from any NZTA options, was likely to change.

Subscriptions

The Chairman explained that the Association needed to be on a sounder financial footing, given the issues ahead, such as the new harbour crossing, and the website upgrade

It was resolved

“THAT THE ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31^ST MARCH 2012 BE SET AT $20.”

Harbour Crossing Tolls

Vivienne Keohane raised the issue of publicity given to the possibility of the imposition of tolls, including on the existing bridge, to fund the new harbour crossing, possibly as high as $8.              Hon. Jonathan Coleman advised that there had been no such discussion at Government level.

It was noted that this would be discussed at the meeting of MPs on July 15^th.

War Memorial Hall

Dissatisfaction was expressed yet again at non-accessibility for the local community because of the presence of the Community Trust. The meeting was advised by Lucy Whineray that KLB and the Trust were making every effort to relocate the Community Trust as soon as possible.

Te Onewa Pa Site

Ian Millar advised that representations made to NZTA  had resulted in public access on weekends.

Regarding re-development, Carol Brown advised that the NRA had been seeking to progress action on the implementation of the Stokes Point / Te Onewa Reserve Management Plan (completed in 2005) which identified much needed improvements to this heritage and recreational area at the southern end of Princes St and Queen St. In the NRA submission to the Kaipatiki Local Board draft Annual Plan, the Association’s concern that the reserve and park not only continued to be neglected but was deteriorating, with further slips, unsafe paths and restricted public access, was highlighted.

There was a pressing need for the improvements provided for in the plan, including safe, permanent and consistent fencing (there has been temporary fencing for a number of years); remedial works and restoration of access on the east side; improved pathways on the west; general enhancement of the reserve; and interpretive signage recognising the heritage significance of the area.

The Auckland Council had informed the NRA that the Conservation Plan was still in draft format and under review by Iwi. Once this was resolved the draft plan would go to KLB for adoption (likely to be in September/ October)

General Business (for consideration by new Executive)

Use of Little Shoal Bay by Ferry Buses

When Northcote Point Wharf was closed, would it be reasonable/possible for mini buses to use Little Shoal Bay to get to Birkenhead Wharf rather than the much longer trip via Onewa Road.

Concern was expressed that Fullers were making access to the Northcote ferry wharf as difficult as possible in the hopes it could be closed.

Northcote Shopping Centre

Kevin Fox tabled photographs and information about the unsatisfactory garbage situation at the Northcote Shopping Centre. Unfortunately, very little constructive response had been received from various elected representatives. This matter would be followed up with KLB.

Noise Abatement Barriers on Bridge Boundaries

The extensive noise abatement project in St Mary’s Bay was noted. NZTA apparently had funding only for new developments. However, it was understood that there were some surplus panels, which could logically and reasonably be installed on the Northern side of the Bridge. This possibility was being followed up by the Executive.

Road Painting Queen St

This had been apparently undertaken, somewhat noisily, in the early hours of the morning. Was it a one-off or on-going problem?  Was there a better alternative?

Associate Membership

Grant Gillon raised the possibility of establishing a category of ‘associate membership’ for persons interested in the activities of the NRA, but who were resident outside the area. To be considered as part of the rule changes.

The AGM concluded at 9.10.

Signed as a correct record _______________________________   Date ___________________

NEWSLETTER OF THE NORTHCOTE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION (INC)      

KEEPING YOU IN TOUCH!                                                                   November 2011

 In this issue –

1. Very Important Residents Meeting – 6^th December 2011
2. Little Shoal Bay and Halls Beach Cleanup – CANCELLED!
3. Kaipatiki Local Board Funding
4. Northcote War memorial Hall
5. Highbury Development
6. Northcote Community Centre Renewal Project
7. Onewa Road/ Queen Street Access
8. Stokes Point/ Te Onewa Pa Site Development
9. Website Page update
10. Membership and Subscriptions

Since the July newsletter, the NRA Executive have been active on a number of important issues, and the Executive have arranged a SPECIAL MEETING ON 6^TH DECEMBER 2011 with important speakers to bring residents up to date with recent developments.

SPECIAL MEETING OF NORTHCOTE RESIDENTS – 7.30 pm, TUESDAY 6^TH DECEMBER 2011, THE WHARF, QUEEN STREET, NORTHCOTE POINT.

The Association has arranged the following speakers -  

New Zealand Transport Agency-

Stephen Town, Regional Director

Patrick Kelly, Senior Transport Planner, who will be speaking about -

Harbour Tunnel Crossing – Update following Mayor Len Brown’s recent visit to China.

Bridge Noise Reduction.

Reinstatement of Stokes Point, and Landscaping under the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

T3 Lane on Onewa Road.

Transpower-

Paul Duffy, Project Director

Ian McBurney, Cables Project Manager

Philippa White, Stakeholder Communisations, who will be speaking about –

North Auckland and Northland Grid Upgrade Project, which involves “pulling” three cables, each 1.4 km long, under the Harbour Bridge, and laying a further three cables 8.4kms alongside the Northern Busway.

Victoria Park Alliance-

Kirsten Stevenson, Environmental Manager, who will be speaking about -

Replacement of motorway gantries north of the harbour Bridge to clearly identify traffic routes once the Victoria Park Flyover is fully opened for southbound traffic in the new year. This project will involve working at night to avoid traffic delays.

Other Topics-

These will include the Pathway Project for cycles and walkers over the bridge and their impact on the northern side of the bridge, and harbour crossing options.

LITTLE SHOAL BAY AND HALLS BEACH CLEANUP.  CANCELLED!

A member of the Executive has inspected the Beaches where a beach cleanup was scheduled for SUNDAY 27^TH NOVEMBER 2011 AT 3PM., and as a result it has been decided that the condition of the beaches is such that a cleanup is unnecessary, and the project has been cancelled for this year.

On 10^th November 2011, the Executive wrote to the Chair of the Kaipatiki Local Board seeking answers on the following issues –

KAIPATIKI LOCAL BOARD FUNDING.

Because of on-going concerns, the letter asked for a public explanation of the amount and source of the funding necessary to operate the Board and allow it to improve facilities and services in the Board’s area.

NORTHCOTE WAR MEMORIAL HALL.

A progress report on the relocation of the Trust to long-promised permanent premises has been requested.

HIGHBURY DEVELOPMENT.

An update on the current situation with development plans has been sought because, while the Centre is outside our residential boundary, most Northcote residents use it. There are also concerns about possible highrise development in the Centre.

NORTHCOTE COMMUNITY CENTRE RENEWAL PROJECT.

A report on the current state of developments has been requested.

ONEWA ROAD/ QUEEN STREET ACCESS.

The existence and need for a T3 lane in Onewa Road has been questioned, again. The cancellation of the T3 lane for a trial period has been requested, as has a review of the phasing of the traffic lights on Onewa Road.

Replies to these questions are still awaited.

Other matters of interest are-

STOKES POINT/ TE ONEWA PA SITE.

After some considerable effort from the NRA over a number of years, there has recently been some progress on the Te Onewa Pa/ Stokes Point Conservation Plan. A copy of the plan will be put on the NRA website, and we are now trying to get the timeframes for implementation, recognising that further NZTA and Transpower work on the Bridge could limit the progress in the near future.

WEBSITE UPDATE.

The new website– http://www.nra.org.nz/ is in the final stages of being commissioned, and we will be using it for communicating with residents about issues as they arise.  So watch this space.

We will also be looking for local advertisers to sponsor the ongoing costs of the site. Let us know if you would like your name/product displayed.

MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTIONS.

Membership stands at 100. However some have not paid their 2011-12 subscriptions, and they are being sent a reminder. The recent AGM approved the subscription of $20.00 per member/family, and we are looking for new members. Accounts are being sent out where this subscription is due.  It will be appreciated if these accounts can be paid as soon as possible to ensure that the Executive can keep up the momentum on the many issues on its agenda.

THE YEAR AHEAD. The Association has to reflect and act on the wishes of Northcote residents, and the Executive will be keeping members informed of developments. Your opinions, concerns and suggestions are invited, and we look forward to hearing from, and seeing you all on 6^th December

We look forward to your on-going support.

On behalf of the Executive

Brian Plimmer

Chairman

Ph 4199429