Have your say  |  11 Mar 2019

Speed limits across the city are under review to keep Christchurch roads as safe as possible.

A proposal to drop the speed limit on Summit Road (from Godley Head to Gebbies Pass Road) from 100km/hm, and 70km/h in places, to 60km/h will go out for feedback on 11 March, with consultation on other roads planned throughout the year.

A windy stretch of Summit Road.

Summit Road's speed limit is being reviewed.

The Summit Road is the main access from Christchurch to the Port Hills, with drives and walks in the hills having become a major recreational pursuit for Christchurch residents and visitors alike.

Also included in the Summit Road speed limit review are five adjoining side roads - Broadleaf Lane and Sumner, Worsleys, Mount Pleasant and Evans Pass Roads. Sumner Road is re-opening at 6pm on 29 March 2019.

Transport Operations Manager Steffan Thomas says the Council wants to make Christchurch roads as safe as possible for users and is reviewing the network based on NZ  Transport Agency guidance on safe and appropriate speed limits.

“Slowing down saves lives, with a strong link between speed and safety on our roads. Speed is the key difference between a mistake that can be corrected and a fatal error. Making sure speed limits are set at the appropriate level for the conditions on specific roads is one of the most important ways we can help people get to where they need to go safely.”

A drop in speed on Summit Road may also help address some of the anti-social road user behaviour happening in the area and make it a more enjoyable space for recreational users. 

Consultation on Summit Road and the five adjoining roads is open until 5pm on 8 April and feedback to improve the proposal is welcome. A final decision about this proposal will be made by the Council following recommendations from a hearings panel in May.

Have your say on the Summit Road speed limit.

A map showing the proposed speed limit change along Summit Road.