City Scene - November 2000:

November 2000

Stimulating Senses

Cricket World Coming To City

Gardening Raised To New Heights

Port Hills - Keeping The Dream Alive

The People's Palace

Transport big issue in city survey

Transport access and improved parking were issues that figured prominently in a Council survey of residents in the August and September editions of "Christchurch City Scene".

The Central City Mayoral Forum initiated the survey and it attracted 560 submissions.

When asked what they wanted for the central city, most people replied that they wanted improved parking and transport access. An equal number wanted to see more development there.

Closely behind was a call for improvements in Cathedral Square.

This was followed by a call for safety to be improved in the city centre.

A high percentage of respondents wanted free parking and others wanted easier parking.

Historic building preservation was high on many people's lists, along with modern housing developments.

Other leading points made were:

Cathedral Square - More colour with trees, flowers and grass needed.

Transport - Public transport had to be improved with more car-free areas.

Safety - Gangs, glue sniffers and street kids had to be removed from the central city. Skaters had to be controlled.

Retail - More quality shops were wanted.

Environment - More trees, green areas and flowers were called for and residents wanted cleaner streets and footpaths.

Entertainment - More activities, such as festivals, were needed and a lesser number wanted facilities for skaters.

Economic - More jobs were needed, especially for school students after school.

Central city living - More housing and better safety.

The top five issues for respondents were parking, development, transport, Cathedral Square and safety.

The Central City Mayoral Forum, in association with the City Council, is now in the process of developing a Central City Strategy, using many of the ideas from residents.