Agenda of Auckland City Centre Advisory Board

I hereby give notice that an ordinary meeting of the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board will be held on:

Date:

Time:

Venue:

Wednesday, 23 September 2015

3.00pm

Rooms 1 & 2, Level 26

135 Albert Street, Auckland

Auckland City Centre Advisory Board

OPEN AGENDA

MEMBERSHIP

		City Centre Stakeholder
Chairperson
Deputy Chairperson	Kate Healy	Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei
Members	Dick Ayres	CBD Residents Advisory Group
	Viv Beck	Business Improvement District
	Mayor Len Brown, JP	Auckland Council
	Greg Cohen	Tourism/Travel
	Shale Chambers	Waitemata Local Board, Auckland Council
	Tim Coffey	CBD Residents Advisory Group
	John Coop	Urban design/institute of architects
	Terry Cornelius, JP, FCA	Retail sector
	Prof Jenny Dixon	Tertiary Education (University of Auckland & Auckland University of Technology)
	Jillian de Beer	Arts and Cultural Sector
	Andrew Gaukrodger	Corporate sector including financial and other professional services
	Barbara Holloway	Business Improvement District
	Mark Kingsford	Corporate sector including financial and other professional services
	Mike Lee	Liaison councillor, Auckland Council
	Nigel Murphy	Tertiary Education (University of Auckland & Auckland University of Technology)
	Alex Voutratzis	Property Council of NZ
	Sky City representative (To be confirmed)	Tourism/Travel

(Quorum 6 members)

Tam White

Democracy Advisor

17 September 2015

Contact Telephone: (09) 890 8156, Email: tam.white@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Website: www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Auckland City Centre Advisory Board

23 September 2015

Election of the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson

File No.: CP2015/11063

Purpose

1. To elect a chairperson for the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board.

Executive summary

2. With the resignation of Lucy Baragwanath from the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board the board must elect a new chairperson.

3. The board must decide whether the election will be conducted by open or closed ballot, and choose a voting system. Staff recommend that the Board adopt one of the two voting systems outlined in the Local Government Act 2002 (explained at paragraphs 12 and 13 of this report).

4. Once the board has made these choices, the Lead Officer Support will lead the process for the election of the chairperson.

Recommendation/s

That the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board:

a) decide whether the chairperson will be elected by open or closed ballot.

b) decide whether the chairperson will be elected using voting system A or voting system B (as described in Schedule 7, Clause 25 of the Local Government Act 2002).

c) elect a chairperson.

d) elect a deputy chairperson if necessary.

Comments

5. At its meeting on the Wednesday 26 March 2014 the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board elected Lucy Baragwanath as chairperson of the board (Resolution No. CEN/2014/14). On 27 May 2015 Lucy announced her resignation from the University of Auckland and therefore the Board, and that the scheduled Board meeting on 24 June 2015 would be her last meeting.

6. The board is required to elect a new chairperson. The current deputy chair is the acting chair, should she put herself forward for the chairperson role, and is elected, a call for nominations for the deputy chair will occur. The same process for the chair will follow.

7. There is no provision for proxy voting. Only members present may nominate and vote for the chairperson. Candidates can vote for themselves.

Open or closed ballot

8. The panel can choose to elect the chairperson by show of hand, which is an open ballot, or by writing their preference on a ballot paper, which is a closed ballot.

Voting System

9. The board needs to decide what voting system it wants to use.

10. Staff recommend to undertake the election in accordance with Schedule 7, Clause 25 of the Local Government Act 2002, and to choose one of the two systems that can be used to elect chairpersons and deputy chairpersons of regional councils and other committees. The two systems are described below.

11. System A -

(a) requires that a person is elected or appointed if he or she receives the votes of a majority of the members of the local authority or committee present and voting; and

(b) has the following characteristics:

(i) there is a first round of voting for all candidates; and

(ii) if no candidate is successful in that round there is a second round of voting from which the candidate with the fewest votes in the first round is excluded; and

(iii) if no candidate is successful in the second round there is a third, and if necessary subsequent, round of voting from which, each time, the candidate with the fewest votes in the previous round is excluded; and

(iv) in any round of voting, if two or more candidates tie for the lowest number of votes, the person excluded from the next round is resolved by lot.

12. System B -

(a) requires that a person is elected or appointed if he or she receives more votes than any other candidate; and

(b) has the following characteristics:

(i) there is only one round of voting; and

(ii) if two or more candidates tie for the most votes, the tie is resolved by lot.

Voting procedure at the meeting

13. The meeting will proceed as follows:

(a) The acting chairperson will call the meeting to order and deal with apologies and the initial procedural items.

(b) The first item of substantive business will be the election of chairperson.

(c) The acting chairperson will vacate the chair and the meeting will be chaired by the lead officer, assisted by the democracy advisor.

(d) The lead officer will call for a decision on whether the ballot will be open or closed. This will be by simple voice or show of hands vote.

(e) The lead officer will then call for a decision on the voting system. Once a member moves one of the systems and is seconded, it will be put to the vote. Again a decision will be by voice or show of hands.

(f) The lead officer will call for nominations for chairperson. Each candidate must be nominated and seconded by a panel member who is present.

(g) If there is only one nomination that person will be declared elected and will assume the chair.

(h) If there is more than one candidate, an election will take place using the voting system agreed earlier.

(i) If it is closed voting, the democracy advisor will undertake the vote, scrutineered by the liaison councillor.

(j) The meeting will then continue with the next item of business.

Consideration

Local board views and implications

14. There are no local board implications.

Māori impact statement

15. There are no items in this report which impact on matters of significance for Māori.

Implementation

16. There are no significant implication issues.

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

Signatories

Author	Tam White - Democracy Advisor
Authoriser	Andrew Guthrie – Programme Director – City Centre Integration

Auckland City Centre Advisory Board

23 September 2015

CCI Progress Update for Auckland City Centre Advisory Board
- to 16 September 2015

File No.: CP2015/19744

Purpose

1. To update the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board (ACCAB) on City Centre Integration (CCI) progress to 16 September 2015.

Executive Summary

2. The report provides a high-level overview of progress on projects and initiatives in the City Centre, including:

a. Targeted Rate Projects

b. Other City Centre Projects

c. City Centre Strategies / Initiatives

d. Information Requested in Response to Board Resolutions

e. Forward Planner.

Recommendation/s

That the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board:

a) receive the City Centre Integration progress report, updated to 16 September 2015.

Comments

Targeted Rate Projects

O’Connell Street Shared Space

3. Negotiations are underway with building owners to agree to a location for which the artwork ‘0’ is to be suspended.

4. Note $100k of CCTR has been provisionally allocated for the artwork and is being held for final completion.

Myers Park Upgrade – Stage 2

5. Concept designs for the Myers Park underpass have been endorsed by the Waitemata Local Board (WLB) and the Advisory Board. Key elements include construction of stormwater detention to improve sight lines/visibility into the park, removal of parking and replacement with improved pedestrian access, and a Maori art feature designed through iwi engagement.

6. Construction due in mid-2016.

Myers Park Underpass

Beach Road Cycleway

7. Construction is complete. The Mayor will lead an opening ceremony on 18th September 2015, to celebrate the completion of Beach Road Cycleway - Stage 2, as a further important link in the city centre cycle network

8. The project team is working with Iwi representatives to agree on further Maori design input or artwork, which may be incorporated into the cycleway at a later date.

Freyberg Square and Ellen Melville / Pioneer Women’s Hall

9. Concept designs are currently out for public consultation, closing on 27 September 2015. A consultation report will be provided to the next Board meeting for discussion.

10. A Hui was held on the 11^th September seeking further iwi input on the designs of Freyberg Square/Ellen Melville Hal and Pioneers Women Hall.

11. Construction is planned for 2016/17.

Freyberg Square Concept Design

High Street Precinct

12. A draft streetscape redevelopment strategy for the High Street Precinct is outlined in the attached ‘High St Precinct Redevelopment Strategy’ paper for discussion. The strategy proposes close engagement with the business and residential community to seek support for the best community outcomes, delivered with minimised disruption.

13. It is proposed that options could be trialled through 2016, (construction period of Freyberg Square) ahead of the main works delivery in 2017/18.

Karangahape Rd

14. Pedestrian and public realm improvements are currently being scoped, to be aligned and delivered alongside the Karangahape Rd Cycleway project in 2016/17 (by AT).

15. A Request for Tender (RFT) for design services will be issued in October 2015.

Wayfinding Signage

16. A presentation on the progress of the Wayfinding project will be provided.

Other City Centre Projects

Hobson and Nelson Street upgrade

17. A reference design has been completed for these two key city streets, to enable development of options and to inform decision-making for adjacent projects (for example the Nelson St cycleway). The reference design is outlined in the attached Hobson & Nelson Street paper, and will be presented to the Board.

18. Initial staging of the streetscape upgrades will be aligned with construction of the NZ International Convention Centre, indicating a potential construction start in 2016/17.

Lower Queen St & Albert St Reinstatement Upgrades

19. Design proposals are being developed to provide for significant improvements in the future form and function of these city streets / places, to be delivered with the CRL Enabling Works in 2018

20. A separate paper providing an overview of the designs is attached, and will be presented to the Board.

Federal Street

21. Work will start shortly to scope a reference design for an upgrade of Federal Street and the adjoining side-streets.

22. A number of initiatives in this area will inform the options for Federal St, including:

· a planned redevelopment of the buildings supporting the St Patricks Cathedral precinct, which will further enhance the public amenity for St Patrick’s Square and provide better frontage onto Hobson St

· construction is due to start shortly on a large apartment building (Conrad Properties) on the corner of Federal and Victoria Streets.

· Council and AT are working on the design and activation of a proposed Federal Street ‘trial’ cycleway, to be delivered in 2015/16.

· CRL construction on Albert St is due to commence in mid-2016. It will be important to provide alternative route choices that are attractive for pedestrians and cyclists eg Federal St.

Victoria Street Linear Park

23. Work is planned to scope a reference design for Victoria St, which will help inform the planning and design of other projects along that street (eg NDG Tower), and potentially allow early delivery of elements of the street not affected by intersection closures during construction of CRL

Downtown Public Spaces

24. Council’s resolution to sell QE Square required that alternate public spaces be provided in the Downtown area.

25. Funding from the sale proceeds will contribute to the delivery of the new spaces, but is not made available until early 2018.

26. A ‘Downtown Public Spaces’ paper is attached outlining the process which will be followed to deliver the first of these spaces in 2018.

Quay Street Streetscape Upgrade

27. No further update - planning and redevelopment of the streetscape upgrade will be informed by outcomes from the Central Wharves investigations, the Downtown Public Open Spaces review, integrated with the timing and requirements of the Seawall seismic upgrade.

Quay St Seawall Seismic Upgrade

28. Project commencement is deferred until 2020 under the LTP proposal. It is expected that sections of the Seawall will need to be brought forward to align with delivery of downtown public spaces in 2018.

Ferry Basin Redevelopment

29. It is expected that redevelopment will be staged to align with planned Quay St Seawall upgrades, and delivery of downtown public spaces in 2018.

30. Further planning and redevelopment of ferry infrastructure will be integrated with outcomes from the Central Wharves investigations.

Westhaven Promenade

31. No further update - Stage 2 is currently in early design stage – construction 2016/17

Wynyard Quarter Redevelopment

32. Stage 1 (Halsey/Gaunt to Fanshawe): The Enabling works contract will be complete in March 2016.

33. Stage 2 (Gaunt to Pakenham) due to complete October/November 2016, subject to completion Stage 1.

34. Some re-design of Halsey and Gaunt Streets is underway to provide for the developments being proposed by Infratil on the current NZBus site

35. Options are being considered by Waterfront Auckland for redevelopment of the current Team NZ base at Site 18 on Beaumont St, as a mixed use development around marine activity.

Transport Infrastructure

36. Auckland Transport will provide an overview to the Board Workshop ahead of the September meeting, on the planning to date on transport outcomes for the city centre.

37. AT will consult the public from October 2015 on the proposed Central and Eastern Bus Networks.

38. A concept proposal to redevelop the Britomart site adjacent to the CPO was introduced to Councillors in August. It is being considered though Council and AT, and will be reported back to the Auckland Development Committee and Auckland Transport Board.

39. Investigation and design work on the proposed Fanshawe Road Bus corridor is due to commence in October/November 2015, subject to confirmation of NZTA funding in October.

Cycle Network

40. Nelson Street – comprised of stages as follows:

· Nelson St Bridge and Off-ramp (NZTA) – The Bridge sections are being pre-fabricated off site. The first sections have been erected in early September, for a planned completion in October / November.

· The CCTR-funded design to enhance the pedestrian and cycle way was well-received by Councillors at an Auckland Development Committee workshop in early September. Elements include specialist lighting, street furniture and a bold surface treatment.

Section of Canada Street Bridge being erected

Nelson Street Cycleway

· Nelson St – Off-ramp to Quay St

a. Stage 1 to Victoria St –. Construction is underway, due for opening in December 2015.

b. Stage 2 to Quay St – to follow in 2016.

41. Quay St - Initial design and traffic modelling is underway to support a trial cycleway on the north side of Quay Street, which will provide an important cycle link to Tamaki Drive, Nelson St, Beach Rd and Westhaven routes. Delivery is required before mid-2016.

42. Federal St – As noted above, Council and AT are working on the design and activation of a proposed trial Federal Street cycleway, to be delivered in 2015/16.

Sky Path

43. The s274 period has closed for interested party to join the appeals to the Environment Court in relation to the resource consent. The Court has not yet set a hearing date.

City Centre Strategies / Initiatives

Programme and Funding

44. Recommendations for allocation of targeted rate funding are provided in the attached papers.

Communications

45. In August the Board supported allocation of $20,000 of CCTR per annual (till 2018) to establish a Resident Survey. The survey will include measured perceptions of domestic and international visitors.

46. A verbal update will be provided at the meeting on communications progress.

Precinct Frameworks

47. Framework documents are underway for key city centre precincts, to collate planning and project information and inform decisions on projects and initiatives.

a. Downtown – complete.

b. Aotea

· The Aotea Framework consultation document is currently out for public consultation, due to close 22 October 2015.

· Civic Administration Building (CAB) - Request for Expression of Interest (REOI) is currently out to the market, due to close 30 September 2015.

c. Learning Quarter – to commence 2016

d. Victoria Quarter – to commence mid-2016

e. Quay Park - An initial information sharing and problem definition workshop with key stakeholders is currently being planned for October.

Central Wharves Strategy

48. No further update - the Central Wharves study will be informed by early outcomes of the Port Study.

Digital Auckland

49. Digital Auckland is progressing a number of initiatives within its agreed programme of works. Of specific interest is the development of a Forward Works Viewer Planning tool, building on a model developed in response to the Canterbury earthquake. This will have early application in some of our major development such as Light Rail and CRL.

50. The Digital Auckland team is participating in a national approach to its development, and is also working with Auckland’s service providers to maximise its value.

Urban Environment

51. CCI is coordinating the development of work around the management of construction effects in the city centre over the next LTP programme. The work includes visual representations of the programme (videos, 3D images etc) and mitigation of effects (activation, engagement etc).

52. A series of small scale improvements and temporary place activation activities is planned, with funding from key stakeholders including CCTR. The initiatives will seek to build momentum and credibility for the upcoming larger scale work in the city centre. Initiatives include;

· Parklet Day (18^th September)

· Christmas on Lower Queen

· Queens Village (convenience retail on Queens Wharf during redevelopment of the Downtown Shopping Centre)

· Hurihanga Plaza (temporary public space on Lower Queen St during CRL construction)

· Lighting on O’Connell Street

· Federal Street Cycleway trial

· Exchange Lane (activation with local businesses)

· Piano Stairs at Aotea Square

· Pop up Globe Theatre (behind the Town Hall) in early 2016

· Open Streets (Cycling Event)

Information Requested in Response to Board Resolutions

53. Refer to Attachment A – ‘Report on Progress from Previous Meetings’.

Forward Planner

54. Refer to Attachment B – ‘Forward Planner

55. The Board is encouraged to identify further topics of interest for discussion at future meetings.

Consideration

Local Board views and implications

56. Workshops seeking Waitemata Local Board input to the Aotea Framework and Ellen Melville Hall design principles were held in June, and July. The Board was generally supportive of the proposals, and approved progress to further design on Pioneer Women’s and Ellen Melville Hall. A local board-led public consultation event for Ellen Melville Hall / Freyberg Square is scheduled for Thursday 17^th September.

57. The Board has been engaged on, and is similarly supportive of the Myers Park Stage 2 upgrade design and proposed city centre cycle network improvements.

Māori impact statement

58. Monthly CCI Hui’s are set up with Iwi representatives - the next one is scheduled for the 9th October.

59. A Hui was held in September to workshop Freyberg Square/Ellen Melville and Pioneer Women’s Hall concept designs.

60. Separate iwi engagement has been carried out on the Myers Park Stage 2 upgrade.

Implementation

61. Regular meetings and workshops are held with the Local Board, Learning Quarter, Iwi and the Auckland Development Auckland Development Committee prior to implementation of city centre proposals.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a View	Progress from previous meetings	23
b View	Meeting topics - Forward Planner	25

Signatories

Author

Andrew Guthrie – Programme Director – City Centre Integration

Auckland City Centre Advisory Board

23 September 2015

Attachment A - Report on progress from previous meetings			Sep-15

Resolution Ref.	Subject	Issue	Required by
CEN/2015/28	Issues of Significance	Request further discussion on the following:
		Street Life related projects
		Staff to propose design principles for TR funded projects, which could then be subject to independent design review a critique.	Sep-15
CEN/2015/53	Election of Chairperson	Agreed to defer this Agenda item to the September 2015 meeting	Deferred to September
CEN/2015/57	Proposed 2015-25 Targeted Rate Funding Criteria and Forward Programme Work update	(further to CEN/2015/42)
		Adopt the updated CCTR Project Assessment Criteria as a guide to the assessment of proposed projects benefits and importance, relative to potential funding through the CCTR.	No action required
		Receive the updated Forward Works Programme including the current proposed TR funded projects (for FY15/16-FY24/25 period) and provide final feedback prior to finalisation and endorsement at the August ACCAB meeting.	Complete
CEN/2015/58	Communications: momentum and mitigation	Support the direction of the momentum and mitigation programme	No action required
		Note the request that some TR budget for over aching collateral promotion and engagement may be required going forward.
CEN/2015/59	Pioneer Women’s and Ellen Melville Hall and Freyberg Square Upgrade	Note the current designs for the Pioneer Women’s and Ellen Melville Hall and Freyberg Square upgrade	No action required
		Support that the project is ready for further engagement with the Auckland public, notably with residents, local business and property owners, city centre employees and youth.
CEN/2015/60	Nelson Street Cycleway Amenity Enhancements	Receive the report and presentation on the latest scoping and design work.		No action required
CEN/2015/65	CCI Progress update to 19 August 2015	Received the CCI progress report		No action required
CEN/2015/66	Proposed 2015-25 City Centre Programme of Work- Update	(further to CEN/2015/42 & 57) Endorsed the TR2 City Centre Programme of Works including the current proposed targeted rate funded projects (for the FY15/16 - FY24/25 period). Endorse in principle the proposed projects and budgets.		No action required
CEN/2015/67	Review of City Centre Masterplan Targets	(further to CEN/2015/32) Support the proposed City Centre Master Plan set targets. Support the allocation of $20,000 of city centre targeted rate funding annually to a residents survey with a review in 2018. Support a survey to measure perceptions of domestic and international visitors and report back on feasibility costs. Support the allocation of $3,500 per annum to measure harbour water quality in the city centre.		No action required
CEN/2015/68	Urban People Places (UPP) Programme Progress Report	Receive the Urban People Places programme progress update report.		No action required
CEN/2015/69	Myers Park Development Stage 2 Concept Designs	Endorse the final concept design for Myers Park Development Stage 2		No action required

Auckland City Centre Advisory Board

23 September 2015

High Street Precinct Redevelopment Update

File No.: CP2015/19640

Purpose

1. To provide the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board with an outline of the proposed process for the redevelopment of High St Precinct.

2. To seek endorsement for the allocation of City Centre Targeted Rate funds of $250,000 for 2015/16 financial year for investigations and engagement.

Executive Summary

3. The soon to be upgraded Freyberg Square will further reinforce the opportunity to improve the High St environment. The design of the Freyberg Square upgrade is currently being developed, and consultation with the public and stakeholders has commenced with construction work due to start in mid-2016 and is expected to take approximately 9 months.

4. It is proposed that an upgrade of High St could follow the completion of Freyberg Square to maintain the momentum and avoid further delay to the improvement of the precinct.

5. In order to achieve a start in mid-2017 it is proposed a thorough engagement and investigation process is carried out in advance of the design, commencing in late 2015.

6. Budget is currently forecast in the LTP for the project to proceed in 2015.

7. Allocation of the city centre targeted rate funds to the project were endorsed in principle by the Board in August 2015.

Recommendation/s

That the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board:

a) endorse the proposed implementation plan for planning, consultation, design and delivery of redeveloped streetscapes within the High St precinct, and specifically the intent to deliver improvements as soon as practicable, and with minimum disruption to businesses and residents.

b) endorse expenditure of up to $250,000 in FY15/16 to commence the initial stages of the proposal as outlined in the Programme of Works. (Investigations and engagement).

Comments

8. As outlined in the City Centre Master Plan, High St Precinct is a major draw card for tourists and Aucklanders with its historic character, retail, food & beverage and entertainment offerings.

9. High St is also a critical link in the emerging laneway circuit for the city and is becoming surrounded by quality upgraded spaces including Fort St, Jean Batten Place, O’Connell St and Lorne St.

10. Historically there have been reservations from local business and retailers to High Street proposals due to issues relating to parking removal, service access, loss of retail trade and construction disruption. These, along with other issues identified through stakeholder engagement will need to form part of the design and planning consideration for the project so they can be suitably considered and addressed.

11. The following steps are proposed as outlined in the attached process chart:

a) Investigations

In order to be able to understand the project challenges and develop the scope correctly, investigations and gathering of information needs to be undertaken to understand how the street is used today from a pedestrian, retailer, business, servicing, parking and traffic movement perspective.

b) Communications

Key to the project’s success is the development of a communications strategy to outline the ways in which project momentum is created and maintained with the public and stakeholders.

c) City Centre Laneway Strategy

The emerging laneway circuit which was introduced through the city centre masterplan is due to further develop over the next few years with upgrades planned to the High St precinct, Federal, Britomart. It is proposed prior to undertaking these a succinct strategy is produced to assist in clearly expressing the aims, outcomes, benefits of investing and further developing the circuit.

d) High St Precinct Vision & Strategy

Development of a vision and strategy for the High St Precinct in consultation with local business, Iwi, retailers and public.

e) Engagement

Consultation and engagement with local business, Iwi, retailers and public on the project scope, aspirations, concerns and reservations for the redevelopment of the precinct

f) Design Development

It is expected that the design period for the project would be approximately 12months. During this time continued engagement with stakeholders and interested parties would continue to refine the design and encourage ownership over the outcomes.

g) Trial and Testing

As previously recognised by the City Centre Integration Programme Control Group, the High St Precinct lends itself to trials and testing of concepts and ideas that could inform the final design and environment. Alongside this, the upgrade of Freyberg Square will reduce the available public space during the construction period. Trials and testing could help to mitigate this by providing alternative and temporary spaces that can evolve and react to their success (or failure). This will also help to demonstrate Councils ability to deliver public space upgrades along with supporting businesses and retailers during the disruption.

12. Budget for the High St Upgrade is currently included in the Programme of Work (TR2) that was endorsed in principle by the ACCAB in August 2015. It is proposed that the $250k allocated for FY15/16 is used to commence and undertake the initial stages of the planned process including carrying out investigation work, completing supporting strategies and initiation of the engagement process with precinct stakeholders.

Consideration

Local Board views and implications

13. The Waitemata Local Board has indicated support for upgrading the High St Precinct.

Māori impact statement

14. Iwi will be engaged throughout the process.

Implementation

Next steps

15. Establishment of High St Precinct Steering Group.

16. Identification and confirmation of project resourcing.

17. Commence project planning, investigations and strategies.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a View	High Street Precinct - Streetscape Redevelopment Process 2015-2017	31

Signatories

Author	Todd Berry – Senior Programme Manager, City Centre Integration
Authoriser	Andrew Guthrie – Programme Director, City Centre Integration

Auckland City Centre Advisory Board

23 September 2015

Hobson/Nelson Reference Design

File No.: CP2015/19711

Purpose

1. The purpose of this report is to provide a brief update on the Nelson and Hobson Street reference design.

Executive Summary

2. The reference design was undertaken for two purposes. Firstly to inform the consenting process for the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), and secondly to inform a future streetscape project project(s) for these streets.

3. Reference designs seek to integrate multiple proposed projects and strategic aspirations and test through iterative design. This process helps to better understand challenges and opportunities, draws out internal knowledge and helps early discussion and debate prior to extensive project processes. Reference designs test and develop the initiatives of the City Centre Masterplan alongside the latest transport network planning.

4. The timing of a street upgrade on these streets is intended to be delivered alongside and leverage off the NZICC investment. Timing for the delivery of the NZICC is awaiting confirmation. The original completion date was late 2017, but is more likely late 2018.

5. In August 2015, the Board endorsed (in principle) the city centre programme of works which identified the allocation of city centre targeted rate to this project.

6. The programme of work shows a proposed stage 1 of the Hobson and Nelson Street upgrade project commencing in FY16/17 with a second stage commencing in FY20/21.

Recommendation/s

That the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board:

a) receive the Hobson/Nelson Reference Design Report.

Comments

7. The reference design was undertaken for two purposes. Firstly to inform the consenting process for the NZICC, and secondly to inform a future project(s) for these streets.

8. The reference design was undertaken by a collaboration of key staff within Auckland Council and Auckland Transport. The design reflects a potential mid-term outcome (e.g. over a 10 year period).

9. Traffic modelling was undertaken to test the design. The modelling included assumptions such the cycleway on Nelson Street and a Linear Park on Victoria to test the design within a future potential state.

10. The reference design uses a boulevard of trees to change the perception of a vehicle dominated street, support residential population, while also retaining key transport roles of these streets. The reference design illustrates:

a. potential lane reductions, particularly in the northern blocks of both streets;

b. potential reallocation of space to extend the cycleway network, and how they can be integrated and contribute into a high quality street environment.

c. significant expansions to the public realm;

d. potential to supplement and strengthen avenue planting unless the motorway on/off ramps are reconfigured there is limited scope for lane reductions or changes to traffic direction on the southernmost blocks of both Hobson and Nelson Street.

11. A full 2m length plan of the reference design will be displayed at the ACCAB meeting for viewing. Attached are artist impressions of the reference design for Nelson Street.

NZICC Consent

12. The reference design has been progressed alongside NZICC development proposals. This has helped informed officer comments into the NZICC resource consent and proposed changes to the effected blocks of Nelson and particularly Hobson Street. It also helped to consider how these changes on these blocks could contribute and tie into a potential future design of the length of the both streets.

13. A new pedestrian lane through the city block (approximately mid-block) between Nelson and Hobson Street. There are only minor changes to Nelson Street and Wellesley Street through the NZICC development proposal. Hobson Street has more substantial changes proposed including:

a. 46 new street trees lining both sides of the street (double avenue on the western side);

b. removal of one traffic/parking lane and improved kerb line consistency;

c. widened footpaths on both sides;

d. Significantly widened footpath (9m) on the western side (plus an additional 3.6m setback) ;

e. integrated coach parking into the footpath (shared/activity zone) contained within a double row of street trees on the western footpath;

Future Streetscape Upgrade Project

14. The second purpose of the reference design is to help inform a future project on these streets. In this regard reference designs seek to integrate multiple proposed projects and strategic aspirations and test through iterative design. This process helps to better understand challenges and opportunities, draws out internal knowledge and helps early discussion and debate prior to extensive project processes.

15. The programme of work that the ACCAB endorsed last month shows a proposed stage 1 of the Hobson and Nelson Street upgrade project commencing in FY16/17 ($5m) and FY17/18 ($10m) with a second stage in FY20/21 ($10m) and FY21/22 ($5m). Project timing will likely need to be updated once there is a firm date provided from the NZICC team.

16. The timing of a street upgrade on these streets is intended to be delivered alongside and leverage off the NZICC investment. Timing for the delivery of the NZICC is awaiting confirmation. The original completion date was late 2017, but is more likely late 2018.

17. The reference design provides early preparation to inform staging, scope, briefing, and early stakeholder engagement for a future project. The ACCAB will be fully involved in this process once it begins.

Consideration

Local Board views and implications

18. Consultation is not undertaken for the reference design phases.

Māori impact statement

19. Consultation is not undertaken for the reference design phases.

Implementation

20. Once timing has been confirmed for the NZICC completion, a project team will be established for the Hobson and Nelson Street upgrade. At this time potential scope and staging of the project will be established. This will lead into project scope, brief development, and procurement of a design team.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a View	Reference design artist impressions for Nelson Street	37
b View	Reference design street layout	39

Signatories

Author

Gyles Bendall - Public Realm Programme Leader - City Centre Design and Delivery; Auckland Design Office

Authorisers

Tim Watts - Manager; City Centre Design and Delivery - Auckland Design Office

Andrew Guthrie - Programme Director - City Centre Integration

Auckland City Centre Advisory Board

23 September 2015

Downtown Public Spaces - Ferry Basin

File No.: CP2015/19762

Purpose

1. To provide Auckland City Centre Advisory Board with an update of the proposed next steps, funding constraints and requirements to deliver the first replacement downtown public space.

Executive Summary

2. In September 2014 the Auckland Development Committee (ADC) confirmed the sale of Queen Elizabeth (QE) Square and that the that the proceeds from the sale of Queen Elizabeth Square be reinvested in the delivery of at least two of three identified potential alternative public spaces along the downtown waterfront

3. In August 2015 the City Centre Integration Chief Executive Steering Group confirmed that at least one of the two public spaces required to replace Queen Elizabeth Square (refer ADC Resolution Sept 2014) should be delivered by 2018 and that the provision of funding should be aligned accordingly.

4. The ADC stipulated in the resolution that the that the proceeds from the sale or lease part of Queen Elizabeth Square be reinvested in the delivery of at least two of three identified potential alternative public spaces along the downtown waterfront i.e.:

a. new/improved space west of Queens Wharf on the water’s edge at the foot of Lower Albert Street

b. improved space around the historic ferry building and at the base of Queens Wharf

c. new/improved space east of Queens Wharf in the Admiralty Steps area.

5. The new public space that is proposed to be delivered is a combination of areas 1 + 2 (above) which are within the existing ferry basin situated between Princes and Queens Wharves. The 3^rd space proposed (Admiralty Steps area) is currently within the port operating area and is subject to the outcomes of the Future Port Study. Due to the uncertainty of the outcomes of this study and the timing of access to this area it is deemed that the Ferry Basin area be the first space to be planned and delivered.

6. As a pre-requisite to delivering the new public space nominated, works associated with the Quay St seawall (within the vicinity) needs to be completed along with works associated with maintaining the ferry infrastructure to accommodate the new public space.

7. In order to deliver the new public space several budget constraint issues are still to be resolved. CCI are currently working through these items at present. The known budget constraints include:

a. The proposed replacement downtown public space (Ferry Basin) is to be funded from the proceeds from the sale of Queen Elizabeth Square. As per the development agreement, the funds are to be paid to Auckland Council no earlier than Feb 2018. This funding availability is approximately 6 months later than the estimated start of construction. The budget to cover design, planning and consenting which is required to commence imminently is still to be identified.

b. The Quay St Seawall seismic upgrade is currently budgeted in the LTP in FY 20-22. CCI is investigating the ability to bring forward part of the budget from FY20/21 to enable the first stage of works (between Princes & Queens Wharf).

c. The Ferry Basin Redevelopment work is currently not budgeted within the 2015 LTP. Budget is required to be identified to cover the required works for the creation of the new downtown public space.

8. ACCAB endorsement is sought for the allocation (in principle) of targeted rate in order to carry out further investigation and design works associated with the Downtown Public Spaces. This is requested on the basis that Council funding is not available to meet the programme requirements.

Recommendation/s

That the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board:

a) receive the update of the proposed next steps, funding constraints and requirements to deliver the first downtown public space within the ferry basin between Princes and Queens Wharves.

b) endorse in principle the allocation of targeted rate to enable the investigation and design of works associated with the Downtown Public Spaces.

Comments

Downtown Public Spaces

9. On 11th September 2014 the Auckland Development Committee (ADC) confirmed the sale of Queen Elizabeth (QE) Square to Precinct Properties Limited on the basis that the square was an underperforming public space and would enable the comprehensive redevelopment of the block and new high quality public space/s to be created from the sale proceeds.

10. The ADC stipulated in the resolution that the that the proceeds from the sale or lease part of Queen Elizabeth Square be reinvested in the delivery of at least two of three identified potential alternative public spaces along the downtown waterfront i.e.:

a. new/improved space west of Queens Wharf on the water’s edge at the foot of Lower Albert Street

b. improved space around the historic ferry building and at the base of Queens Wharf

c. new/improved space east of Queens Wharf in the Admiralty Steps area.

11. Funds from the sale of QE Square are available from early 2018 subject to satisfying conditions of the agreement. Precinct Properties have indicated that it may be possible to make available the funds earlier to align the delivery with their development.

12. Currently the Plan Change and Road Stopping processes are underway.

Seawall

13. In 2013 it was identified that the Quay St Seawall does not satisfy current seismic design standards and may fail in a moderate seismic event. Sections are in a poor condition and immediate repairs were carried out in 2014/15 to prevent further deterioration.

14. Auckland Transport engaged Tonkin & Taylor (T&T) to develop design options for a seismic upgrade in late 2013.

15. Following the T&T Options report a hold was placed on further work being carried out until funding was identified.

16. The 2015 LTP has allocated $49m of funding commencing in FY21 which is later than required.

17. In order to carry out any public realm works including the new alternative public spaces the relevant sections of the seawall seismic upgrade needs to be completed to avoid unnecessary disruption and abortive rework.

Ferry Infrastructure

18. In May 2013 Jasmax was engaged and developed a benchmarking report on ferry terminals The benchmarking report highlighted the need to redevelop the existing Downtown Ferry Terminal in order to:

a. Unlock the potential of Quay Street and Queens Wharf to contribute to a vibrant waterfront destination within Auckland;

b. Cater for expected increases in demand for commuting ferry services while also providing an efficient terminal facility that would strengthen the role of passenger ferry transport within Auckland as an alternative mode of transport for commuters to the Auckland CBD;

c. Create a world class gateway to the Waitematā Harbour.

19. As a result of this benchmarking, Jasmax were further engaged to prepare a high level masterplan for the redevelopment of the Downtown Ferry Terminal and the Ferry Basin. Early investigations by Jasmax identified the need for a fundamental rethink of how the Downtown Ferry Terminal operated in order to achieve the outcomes identified in the benchmarking report and the strategic vision set out by the key Council stakeholders. Consequently specialist marine engineers with extensive ferry expertise from Mott MacDonald in Melbourne were engaged to assist Jasmax with the masterplanning exercise.

20. Auckland Transport subsequently produced the Ferry Development Plan which was endorsed by the Auckland Transport Board in November 2014 and plans for growth of up to 50% increase in patronage by 2026.

21. During the 2015 LTP process $15m was initially budgeted for the first stage of the downtown ferry redevelopment but this was deferred until beyond 2025. The downtown ferry terminal redevelopment currently has no funding allocated in the 2015 LTP.

Consideration

Local Board views and implications

22. Waitematā Local board have previously indicated their desire for the new public space to be delivered as soon as possible.

Māori impact statement

23. Iwi will be engaged throughout the process.

Implementation

Next Steps

24. Budget

a. Determine the required budget for investigation and design works and report back to ACCAB if agreement in principle of an allocation of targeted rate is received.

b. Confirm and align budget for construction works.

25. Design

a. Commence procurement of consultants.

b. Commence an integrated master planning exercise.

c. Commence procurement and delivery strategy.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a View	Downtown Public Spaces - Diagrams	63

Signatories

Author	Todd Berry – Senior Programme Manager, City Centre Integration
Authoriser	Andrew Guthrie – Programme Director, City Centre Integration

Auckland City Centre Advisory Board

23 September 2015

Wayfinding (Regional Signage) Update

File No.: CP2015/19770

Purpose

1. To provide the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board with an update on the Wayfinding (Regional Signage) update.

Executive Summary

2. In April 2015 the Board approved an allocation of $900,000 of the City Centre Targeted Rate for implementation of the Regional Signage Strategy.

Recommendation/s

That the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board:

a) receive the update on the Wayfinding (Regional Signage) Project.

Comments

3. Progress will be reported against the Wayfinding Programme, below.

4. The attached images show the current development of wayfinding signage for the trial sites.

2Q 2015	Manufacture product prototypes
3Q 2015	Install prototypes signs in all the test precincts: Four precincts have been identified to trial the proposed system: · Wynyard Quarter – major entertainment precinct where visitors eat and explore. This area covers from Princes Wharf to Westhaven so has a heavy emphasis on international visitors from cruise ships – the first touch point of the wayfinding system for tourists and locals at leisure to explore the city · Grafton Gully Cycleway/Dominion Road Cycleway · New Lynn – covers elements of new and old suburban living, a major shopping centre and large Public Transport interchange · Northcote Shopping Centre – classic residential suburban hub with a strong cultural mix
3Q 2015	Feedback/engage with community via focus groups
4Q 2015	Assess results of testing and develop final overarching strategy document
4Q 2015	Report back on progress
1Q 2016	Detail about incorporating into AT ATCOP and AC Design Manual – distribute info to relevant agencies for implementation recommended on a repair and upgrade/new capital works basis
2Q 2016	Develop implementation plan and implement signage within Auckland Central City

Consideration

Local Board views and implications

5. Waitemata Local Board was briefed on 16 April. The Project Team will continue to work with them to ensure that any Large/Small Information Plinths carry the correct information.

6. Waitemata Local Board will be invited to visit all the trial sites once they have been installed.

Māori impact statement

7. The project team is working with iwi through Auckland Transport’s Maori Policy and Engagement Team on information signage.

Implementation

8. Currently looking at 3Q15 for implementation in trial sites followed by roll out plan for city centre in 2Q16.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a View	Wayfinding (Regional Signage) Briefing presentation and images	73

Signatories

Author	Maree Cotter – Customer Design Manager, Auckland Transport
Authoriser	Andrew Guthrie – Programme Director, City Centre Integration

Author	Simon Lough - Urban Design, City Rail Link and City Centre
Authoriser	Andrew Guthrie – Programme Director, City Centre Integration