DCC consultation on Albany Street parking changes

To provide more parking near businesses, the Dunedin City Council (DCC) has added nine new carparks to its Albany Street Connection project design along two areas on the northern side of Albany Street, near the University Library and opposite Hyde Street.

From 17 July to 7 August, public consultation will take place regarding suggested parking restrictions for the new carparks. The DCC is also keen to know whether parking restrictions for the other carparks in the project area are still appropriate.

The Albany Street Connection project aims to provide a safe and accessible walking and cycling connection between Te Aka Ōtākou (the Harbour Shared Path) and Dunedin’s tertiary area and CBD. The project includes improvements for the many pedestrians and bus users in the area as well as safety improvements for all users.

DCC Transport Group Manager Jeanine Benson says, “A new design approach and the cooperation of the University of Otago around using driveway space that will be unused in future made this possible. DCC is considering planting native trees to replace the three trees will be taken out to accommodate additional car parks outside the University Library.”

Previous consultation about this project first took place in 2021 as part of drafting the Council’s 10 year plan 2021-31. In 2022 and 2023 the DCC consulted on proposed designs for a separated cycleway, new pedestrian crossings, bus stop and route changes as well as parking changes and one-waying of some side streets. Changes were made to the design following feedback received during these consultations.

The proposed parking restrictions for Albany Street were considered and supported by a Hearings Committee in 2023. In 2024 the project was put on hold until funding was reconfirmed in the 9 year plan 2025–34 which was finalised in June.

Submission forms and maps showing the parking restrictions will be available from 17 July to 7 August at www.dunedin.govt.nz/parking-changes.

Submissions to this consultation will be considered at a Hearings Committee meeting on 15 August. The Committee will then make a recommendation for Council to decide upon.

The project construction cost is $3 million which is 51% co-funded by the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi.