The Dunedin City Council has backtracked on controversial aspects of its trial Octagon closure.
In a statement the council said it was responding to concerns raised by stakeholders about cruise ship buses dropping passengers outside Toitu.
They will instead be dropped off and picked up on Cumberland St, outside the Countdown and New World supermarkets, from January 27 to February 17.
The change follows concerns from business owners, the New Zealand Cruise Association, the Otago Chamber of Commerce, and bus company Ritchies about health and safety, and the impact on Octagon businesses.
Council events and community development manager Joy Gunn said the move to Cumberland St was made possible by the Dunedin Hospital rebuild team adjusting their timetable for the demolition of the Cadbury distribution warehouse.
Prior to that decision, the Cumberland St option had not been available for consideration.
‘‘We’re delighted that the hospital rebuild team has made these changes to accommodate the city’s needs.
‘‘This location has been used in the past and is well known to bus and tourist operators.’’
The trial closure of the Octagon, known as the Octagon Experience, will be staggered over a three-month period between January and March next year.
During the partial closure period (February 17 to March 23) cruise ship shuttles will utilise George and Princes Streets.