QLDC Seeks Feedback on Draft Speed Limit Bylaw and Proposed Speed Reductions

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) is seeking community feedback on a new draft Speed Limits Bylaw 2019 | Kā Ture Pae Tere 2019, and on a range of reductions in speed limits proposed throughout the district. 

This is in response to the introduction of the New Zealand Speed Management Guide by NZTA and the commencement of the new Setting of Speed Limits Rule 2017 which requires councils to set safe and appropriate speeds across their road network.

At their meeting today, QLDC Councillors approved for council staff to consult on a new Speed Limits Bylaw which has been updated to reflect legislative change and removes road-specific information to be maintained in a separate referenced schedule.

QLDC Acting Strategy and Asset Planning Manager Polly Lambert said the changes allow Council to be more responsive should speed limits need to be amended whilst ensuring the community continues to be consulted on proposed changes.

“QLDC has undertaken a complete review of the Bylaw and speed management which included engaging with key stakeholders such as NZTA, NZ Police, AA and a range of passenger service vehicle operators. We’ve also worked with community associations and local schools to inform the recommendations,” said Ms Lambert.

In addition to the new Bylaw, the recommendations include a number of changes to reduce speeds on some key at risk roads across the district’s council-managed network to;

>        improve safety for vulnerable road users (urban traffic areas),

>        improve safety on roads with high death or serious injury risk,

>        permanently change areas recently posted with reduced speed limits.

Full details of the review and recommendations are available at www.qldc.govt.nz/lets-talk  where there is the opportunity to provide feedback on the proposals. The community can also find out more by attending one of four drop-in sessions.

Consultation begins on Monday 11 March and submissions must be made by 5.00pm, Friday 12 April. 

Hearing of submissions will be held in Wānaka on 26 April and in Queenstown on 29 April.

ENDS