Temporary Pump Track Consultation To Get Under Way

Consultation around a proposed temporary pump track on Shirley Road can go ahead now funding has been approved for the project.

Earlier this month, the Christchurch City Council approved $87,850 for the creation of the relocatable track – created from 11 engineered modules, and is suitable for bikes, scooters, skateboards and skates.

The Waipapa/Papanui Innes Community Board at the end of last year, was approached by local boy Shannon Smith, who organised a petition in support of a bike or skate park.

Community Board Chair, Ali Jones, says the board decided it was important to get the funding before going out to consultation because there have been cases in the past where consultation has been completed only to find there was no money available.

“Consulting on something, creates an expectation in a community and we did not want to do that if there was no money available,” she says. “In fact as this is temporary, I am advised that we aren’t required to consult but this isn’t about “what’s required”; this is about talking with and listening to our community about activating a site that has not been used as a community space for more than 8 years,” she says.

Supported and informed by the consultation, the Papanui-Innes Community Board will also need to approve the pump track location. If the pump track does not go ahead, the money will be returned to the endowment fund, from where it will come.

Gap Filler installed a large permanent pump track at the corner of Manchester and Gloucester streets in the inner city at the end of last year and it is well used by adults and children alike.

ENDS