We're reviewing speed limits across our roading network to make Christchurch roads safer.
Project status: Decision made
Open for feedback: 11 March 2019 to 8 April 2019
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Consultation has closed
The consultation ran from 11 March 2019 to 8 April 2019.
During the course of the consultation 251 submissions were received.
As the area for the speed review is very large, the project team decided to utilise social media, community development advisors contacts, local businesses, local newsletters and newspapers to let people know about the consultation.
Three information signs were also installed along the route; Godley Head parking area, Sign of the Kiwi and at the Sign of the Bellbird.
Of the 251 submitters, 179 people agreed with the proposed speed change to 60km/h.
23 people wanted the speed limit to be changed to 50km/h, the main reason was that as this is a tourist route, people do not drive to the limit and they want to enjoy it. Also a lot of people use this route as a recreational route, having the speed lower would allow for a better journey for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
18 people didn’t want a change, either because they thought it was peoples driving that should be changed, driver distractions, or drivers should drive to the conditions.
Some of the other common themes from the feedback were:
- Change to 80km/h
- Change to 70km/h
- Change to 30km/h
- A lower speed (not specified)
- Enforcement
- Other deterrents
- Driver Education
Submissions [PDF, 628 KB]
Hearings panel minutes(external link)
The Council will be considering and making a decision on the Hearings Panel’s recommendations on the Summit Road Speed Limit Review at its meeting on Thursday 27 June 2019 at 9.30am.
The Council Agenda with the Hearings Panel report and recommendations(external link) - refer to Item 19.
Shortly after the meeting you will find the Council minutes available containing the Council’s decision on the Summit Road Speed Limit Review, on the website.
To improve safety for everyone we’re proposing to change the speed limit from 100km/h (and 70km/h) to 60km/h on Summit Road. Adjoining side roads, Broadleaf Lane, Worsleys Road, Mount Pleasant Road, Evans Pass Road and Sumner Road are also included in the proposal.
Why review the speed limit?
Summit Road
Slowing down saves lives, with a strong link between speed and safety on our roads .
We want to make Christchurch roads as safe as possible so we are reviewing speed limits across the city’s roading network where there are concerns they are not safe or appropriate.
Having speed limits set at the correct 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 and the five adjoining side roads 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.
Setting speed limits
The Christchurch City Council's Traffic and Parking Bylaw 2017 allows Council to set and change speed limits on roads within Christchurch in accordance with the Speed Management guide(external link) and the Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2017(external link). Consultation is required as part of this process.
Speed limit review area
The decision-making process
In May a Hearings Panel will consider all submissions on the proposal and hear from any submitters who would like to speak about their feedback. The Hearings Panel will give its recommendation to Council, who will then consider whether to approve the changes.
Sumner Road reopening
Sumner Road
Sumner Road will reopen from 6pm on 29 March 2019.
Christchurch City Council and NZ Transport Agency are working to reopen Sumner Road, from Evans Pass to Lyttelton. Contractors have spent the past two-and-a-half years working to reinstate Sumner Road, which has been closed to traffic since tonnes of rocks came tumbling down onto it from the surrounding cliffs during the 22 February 2011 earthquake.