A proposal to realign Lovelock Ave caused most discussion at a public meeting on the $6 million upgrade of Dunedin's Botanic Garden yesterday.
The Botanic Garden development strategy meeting was the first stage in public consultation on a range of projects, including the completion of the lower garden area, proposals for a new ‘‘tropical house'' and visitor centre, and relocation of propagation and administration buildings.
Dunedin City Council botanic garden and cemeteries team leader Alan Matchett also outlined plans to reroute Lovelock Ave to run along the border of the Northern Cemetery, to the rear of the Opoho Bowling Club.
A new section of road would shorten the avenue from 1500m to about 500m.
The wider roadway would also have cycle lanes, a bus stop and improved visibility and lighting, he said.
Comments from Opoho resident Gordon Johnston about the importance of a ‘‘beautiful road being retained in its existing form'', and moving it being ‘‘disrespectful to the memory of [athlete] Jack Lovelock'', were supported by many of the 36 people at the meeting.
Opoho resident Errol Chave said ‘‘realignment was in fact a euphemism for closure'' of the existing road. Mr Chave said the gradient of a new road would be a concern.
In response, council roading consultant Dave Gamble said the road might have a 1 in 6 gradient, similar to sections of Warrender St. Transport planning manager Teresa Matassa said the road surface was likely to be concrete to enhance traction in winter.
There would also be less shading from trees on the proposed section, Mr Matchett said.
Mr Chave, a civil engineer, told the Otago Daily Time he was not opposed to development of the upper gardens area, but did not want to lose access ‘‘to a very relaxing drive and ride''.
Jean Monk, of Opoho, questioned whether traffic control measures, such as a recontoured road or judder bars, could be implemented on the existing avenue to slow traffic.
Gretchen Kivell, of Opoho, said she would support roading development in the area.
As a frequent recreational walker in the gardens she had concerns for pedestrian safety because visibility crossing sections of Lovelock Ave was poor, and traffic often sped on the road, she said.
- The presentation of development plans will be repeated at the Botanic Centre, Lovelock Ave, at 7pm on Wednesday.
