Introduction to the Golden Mile Upgrade
Wellington, New Zealand’s capital, known for its vibrant cultural scene and bustling urban life, is set to undergo a significant transformation with the unveiling of the final design for the Golden Mile upgrade, focusing on Courtenay Place. This project, part of the now-disestablished Let’s Get Wellington Moving (LGWM) Programme, represents a bold step towards reimagining urban spaces in the city. Announced by the Wellington City Council, the upgrade is a $116 million investment aimed at enhancing pedestrian and cyclist accessibility, reducing vehicular traffic during peak hours, and fostering a more community-oriented environment. Construction is slated to begin in April, with an expected completion timeline of two years, starting from the intersection of Cambridge and Kent Terraces before progressing to Courtenay Place.
The design, which has been in the works for several years, includes several key changes: cars will be banned from 7am to 7pm between Lambton Quay and Courtenay Place, footpaths will be widened to accommodate more pedestrian traffic, a dedicated cycle lane will be introduced, and public spaces will be enhanced with new lighting, anti-slip pavement, and greenery. This initiative is not just about physical changes but also about redefining how Wellingtonians interact with their city centre. The project has been funded in part by NZTA Waka Kotahi, contributing 51% of the total cost, reflecting a collaborative effort between local and central government bodies to reshape urban mobility.
The decision to proceed with the Golden Mile upgrade comes at a time when urban planning is increasingly focused on sustainability, community well-being, and economic vitality. However, the project has not been without controversy. While some residents and businesses welcome the changes for their potential to revitalize the area, others are concerned about the disruption during construction and the long-term impact on local commerce. Mayor Tory Whanau, in her commitment to the project, has acknowledged these concerns but emphasized the long-term benefits, drawing parallels with similar urban projects globally that have transformed city centres into vibrant, pedestrian-friendly zones.
Economic and Business Impact
The economic implications of the Golden Mile upgrade are multifaceted, with immediate and long-term effects on local businesses. During the construction phase, businesses along Courtenay Place are expected to face challenges due to reduced accessibility and potential decreases in foot traffic. A study by WellingtonNZ on similar urban projects suggests that businesses might see a short-term decline in customers by up to 20% due to construction-related disruptions. To mitigate this, Mayor Whanau has outlined a comprehensive business support package. This includes access to financial grants to help with operational costs, marketing assistance to maintain visibility, and strategic street signage to guide customers to businesses amidst the construction chaos.
However, the long-term economic outlook is more optimistic. The same study indicates that post-construction, areas undergoing such upgrades often experience a surge in property values and business turnover, with an average increase of 15%. This is attributed to the enhanced appeal of the area, drawing more visitors and locals alike, who are attracted by the improved environment for shopping, dining, and leisure activities. The introduction of cycle lanes and pedestrian-friendly zones is expected to boost local commerce by encouraging more foot traffic and reducing the dominance of cars, which can deter casual browsing.
The council’s decision to proceed with the project, despite economic headwinds, was influenced by cost-benefit analyses showing that delaying the project would lead to increased expenses due to inflation and potential loss of funding opportunities. The economic strategy also involves leveraging the project to position Wellington as a forward-thinking city, potentially attracting tourism and investment. However, the uncertainty remains regarding whether some businesses might not survive the construction period, a concern Mayor Whanau could not dismiss outright, highlighting the delicate balance between urban development and economic stability.
Community Engagement and Design Features
The design of the Golden Mile upgrade has been a collaborative effort, notably involving mana whenua, which has infused the project with cultural significance. Ngā ūranga, interactive sculptures designed in partnership with local iwi, will serve as multifunctional spaces for sitting, sharing food, or hosting performances, embodying the spirit of community and cultural heritage. This integration not only respects and celebrates Wellington’s indigenous history but also aims to create spaces that encourage social interaction and community pride.
Community engagement has been central to the project’s development. Public consultations, facilitated by the Wellington City Council, have gathered extensive feedback, with a recent survey indicating that 55% of respondents supported the pedestrianisation efforts, valuing the potential for a safer, more vibrant city centre. However, 45% expressed concerns, particularly around accessibility for those with mobility issues and the reduction in parking spaces, which could affect those who rely on cars for transport. The council has responded by planning to improve public transport options and providing alternative parking solutions, aiming to address these concerns while pushing forward with the project.
The design features include not only aesthetic enhancements like new lighting and greenery but also practical improvements such as replacing old water pipes beneath Courtenay Place, ensuring the infrastructure supports the new urban vision. The widened footpaths are designed to accommodate outdoor dining, street performances, and public art, transforming Courtenay Place into a cultural and social hub. This vision aligns with global trends towards creating ‘living streets’ where urban spaces are multifunctional, serving as venues for community life beyond mere transit corridors.
Political Risks and Future of Urban Development in Wellington
The political landscape in Wellington has been significantly influenced by the Golden Mile project. Mayor Tory Whanau’s candid admission that the controversial revamp could cost her the mayoralty underscores the high stakes involved. The project’s timing, coinciding with local body elections, adds a layer of political risk, reminiscent of the situation faced by former Dunedin Mayor Aaron Hawkins, who lost his position after pushing through similar urban changes. Yet, Whanau’s resolve to continue with the project reflects a commitment to a vision for Wellington that prioritizes sustainable urban development over immediate political popularity.
The history of the Let’s Get Wellington Moving Programme, which began in 2016 as a collaborative initiative between Wellington City Council, Greater Wellington Regional Council, and NZTA Waka Kotahi, provides context to the Golden Mile upgrade. Although the broader programme was disestablished in December 2023, with central government taking over other components like the Basin Reserve upgrade and the second Mt Victoria tunnel, the Golden Mile project was retained by the city council, highlighting its importance to local urban strategy.
This project is a test case for future urban development in Wellington, setting precedents for how the city might approach similar initiatives. It reflects a shift towards prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist mobility, public space enhancement, and cultural integration in urban planning. The political discourse around the project has also sparked discussions on governance, public consultation, and the balance between development and democracy. As Wellington moves forward, the success or challenges of the Golden Mile upgrade will likely inform future projects, influencing policy, public opinion, and the political careers of those involved. The project’s outcome could either bolster support for progressive urban policies or serve as a cautionary tale for future leaders, emphasizing the need for robust community support and clear communication in urban transformation efforts.
