Additional railway around the existing track and pond
The 720m long by 1.2m wide track extension is close to the existing track. The aim is to minimise the footprint and the potential impact on other park users. Maintenance and testing can then happen on a separate track, at the same time as public excursions.
The proposal takes into consideration the need for path crossings and access to other parts of the domain, and these are shown on the consultation plan. At public crossing points the track is set into concrete (1.5 m wide x 1.9 m long).
Another set of steps will cater for passengers at the station, and approximately 25m2 of extra space in the steaming bay area will allow room for a locomotive turntable.
The new track will require the removal of approximately 15m2 of existing vegetation including one mature tī kōuka (cabbage tree) near the toilet block. These plants will be replaced with an additional 35m2 of new landscaping that will enhance the area and help form a barrier between the track and path.
Formalising the arrangements for model boat events at the pond
The CSMEE would like to formalise their existing use of the pond when running an exclusive competition or event, during the following times:
- Thursdays 10am to 2pm, Saturdays 1pm to 4pm and Sundays 12pm to 4pm.
- The public will still be encouraged to use and enjoy this space outside these hours.
- The CSMEE will be responsible for pond maintenance and a one metre buffer around the perimeter.
Other features
Other features of the CSMEE lease application that will be needed to complete the additional track include:
- concrete pads for smooth public access across the tracks and ease of maintenance, at various locations
- track signals for additional safety, at key public crossing points
- a train bridge to replace the existing plank across the stream near the pond
- soil removal and fill where needed for track alignment and gradient
- work required for the track to cross existing swale and boxed drain