Neighbours of Westfield St Lukes get a raw deal

Neighbours of Westfield St Lukes have been given a raw deal over a decision allowing the mall to more than double its floor size says MP for Mt Albert David Shearer.

"This week’s decision by three independent commissioners recommending Auckland City Council approve the expansion could mean the lives of people living in this area would be changed forever.

"Currently St Lukes is not adequately serviced by public transport and traffic congestion in the area is already a problem. If this expansion goes ahead as planned it will exacerbate that problem especially at the Exeter Road end of the mall," David Shearer said.

"Westfield should, at the very least, provide a free bus shuttle to nearby bus and train stations.

"Other large malls like Sylvia Park and Botany Downs are serviced by trains and buses respectively. Unlike St Lukes, they are not located right in the middle of a quiet residential area.

"Neighbours of the mall, some of whom have been living in the area for decades, have bought their houses in good faith and are now faced with the prospect of having the country’s biggest mall right on their doorstep," David Shearer said.

"They are not anti-development. They just feel angry that their genuine concerns have not been listened to.

"I call on Westfield and the Auckland City Council to genuinely consult with local residents and take their concerns seriously."