Introduction
In the bustling heart of Wellington, Manners Street has earned a notorious nickname among bus drivers: ‘The Bowling Alley’. This moniker reflects the street’s challenging conditions for both drivers and pedestrians. Recently, these concerns were brought into sharp focus when a pedestrian was critically injured after being struck by a bus at 4:40pm on Manners Street. One Network Wellington Live provides a comprehensive look into this incident, the history of safety issues on this road, and what it means for the future of pedestrian and public transport safety in Wellington.
The Recent Incident
On a typical busy afternoon, emergency services were summoned to Manners Street following a distressing collision between a pedestrian and a bus. Witnesses recounted the chaotic scene where the pedestrian, a man, stepped onto the road and was immediately hit. The community’s response was swift; bystanders rushed to provide first aid, showcasing the spirit of Wellingtonians in crisis. The bus involved was a double-decker, left stationary with its hazard lights flashing, marking the spot of the tragedy.
Emergency Response and Scene Investigation
The Wellington Free Ambulance confirmed the transportation of one patient in serious condition to Wellington Hospital. The scene was quickly cordoned off by about ten police officers, with the Serious Crash Unit taking over to conduct a thorough investigation. The focus was on the front corner of the bus, where the impact occurred, with visible damage to the windscreen. A man in high-visibility clothing was observed inspecting the bus’s tyres, indicating a detailed examination of the vehicle’s condition at the time of the accident.
Impact on Public Transport
The incident led to significant disruptions in Wellington’s public transport system. All bus stops on Manners Street were closed, and services were diverted, affecting the evening peak commute. MetLink, the region’s public transport operator, expressed their concern for all involved, stating, “Our thoughts are with the bus driver, passengers, and the injured pedestrian. We are grateful to emergency services personnel who attended the scene.” This diversion underscores the interconnectedness of urban transport and safety incidents.
Historical Context: Manners Street’s Safety Record
Manners Street’s reputation as a hazardous thoroughfare isn’t new. Bus drivers have long referred to it as a ‘bowling alley’ due to its narrow width, high pedestrian traffic, and the complexity of navigating buses through it. This incident isn’t isolated; historical data from Wellington City Council (WCC) shows that over the past decade, there have been numerous minor and several serious incidents involving buses and pedestrians on this street. Notably, in 2012, Tim Brown, who was then the NZ Bus director and is now a WCC councillor, was himself involved in a similar accident on Manners Street, surviving a collision with a bus. This history highlights ongoing safety challenges.
Statistics and Safety Concerns
According to Wellington City Council’s traffic safety reports, Manners Street has seen an average of 3 pedestrian-vehicle incidents per year over the last 10 years, with a notable increase in severity in recent times. A study by the Wellington Regional Transport Committee in 2020 pointed out that the design of Manners Street, with its narrow lanes and high pedestrian density, contributes significantly to these incidents. The report suggested that improvements in road design, better signage, and enhanced pedestrian crossings could reduce these numbers by up to 50%.
Community and Council Response
The community’s reaction to such incidents is one of concern mixed with a call for action. Local residents and business owners have voiced their worries over the safety of Manners Street, with some advocating for pedestrian-only zones during peak times. Tim Brown, reflecting on his own experience, has been vocal about the need for infrastructural changes. “We need to rethink how we manage traffic flow and pedestrian safety on our busiest streets,” Brown stated in a recent council meeting, pushing for a review of current traffic management strategies.
Future Implications for Wellington
This latest incident on Manners Street serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle between urban development, public transport efficiency, and pedestrian safety. The Wellington City Council has already initiated discussions on potential redesigns of Manners Street, including proposals for wider pavements, traffic calming measures, and possibly rerouting bus services to less congested areas. These discussions are part of a broader initiative to make Wellington’s city centre safer and more pedestrian-friendly, aligning with global urban planning trends towards sustainable and safe city living.
Conclusion
The incident on Manners Street where a pedestrian was critically injured by a bus is more than just a tragic event; it’s a call to action for Wellington. It highlights the urgent need for improved safety measures on one of our city’s busiest streets. As Wellingtonians, we must engage with our council, support safety initiatives, and remain vigilant about our surroundings. The path to making Manners Street safer involves community involvement, informed policy-making, and a commitment to change. One Network Wellington Live will continue to report on developments, ensuring our community stays informed and involved in making Wellington a safer place for all.
Note: This article is based on reports from emergency services, witness accounts, and official statements from Wellington City Council and MetLink. For the latest on this incident or to participate in safety discussions, stay connected with One Network Wellington Live.