Improving morning traffic flow on Grand Drive, Remuera

Engagement outcome

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback on our proposal to improve morning traffic flow along the intersection of Grand Drive and Abbotts Way, Remuera.

Feedback strongly supported the proposed changes, and we will proceed with the project as planned.

We plan to start work in mid-2026. 

Engagement summary

We received 11 responses to the 665 letters delivered to residents and 13 emails sent to external stakeholders. Most respondents were supportive of the proposed morning clearway along Grand Drive, Remuera (7am to 9am, Monday to Friday), to improve traffic flow and safety. 

Alongside the feedback received, a few submitters raised additional suggestions focused on:

• pedestrian and cyclist safety
• the limited operating hours of the proposal
• wider network congestion
• existing road layout constraints.

We have acknowledged these matters, with safety and maintenance issues being addressed and broader network feedback referred to relevant teams for further investigation. 

Overall, community sentiment was positive, with strong support for the proposed project and constructive feedback noted for future consideration. 

Quote from feedback

“I fully support this proposal… Thank you for making my morning commute easier!!”

Responses to key themes and feedback

1. Safety risks for pedestrians and cyclists 

Submitters raised concerns about pedestrian safety - particularly following the removal of a refuge island - and cyclist safety, including debris and constrained road space.

We acknowledge concerns about pedestrian and cyclist safety. The pedestrian refuge on Abbots Way was temporarily removed for roadworks and will be reinstated following resurfacing.

Maintenance issues, including debris and road surface concerns, have been referred to the relevant teams.

The proposed clearway will also improve visibility and provide additional space for cyclists during peak periods. 

2. Proposal seen as too limited in scope

Some submitters consider the 7 to 9am weekday clearway insufficient, noting congestion occurs at other times.

The proposed clearway specifically targets the busiest weekday peak period, where delays are most significant. This approach balances improving traffic flow while maintaining on-street parking outside these times.

We will continue to monitor the effectiveness of the clearway and consider adjustments if further improvements are required. 

3. Wider network congestion not addressed

Feedback highlighted congestion at nearby intersections, particularly Abbots Way and Ladies Mile, as part of the overall issue.

We recognise concerns about congestion across the wider road network. While these matters fall outside the scope of this project, they have been referred to the appropriate teams for further investigation and consideration.

4. Infrastructure and layout constraints affecting traffic flow

Submitters identified contributing factors such as bus stop location, turning movements, signal timing, access points, and road condition.

We appreciate the constructive suggestions regarding infrastructure and traffic operations. These elements have been assessed as part of this project, and relevant feedback has been passed to the appropriate teams.

The current proposal focuses on removing parking during peak times to enable improved traffic flow, while more complex changes may be considered separately if needed.