STUFF
Some have no problem with the changes, while others would like it to go back to the way it was.
Business owners in Matamata have split opinions over a six-month pedestrian friendly street trial, with some saying the changes have slowed down customer numbers but heightened traffic congestion. In December, Matamata’s Hetana St was converted into a one-way street in a bid to ease congestion and make it pedestrian-friendly. A handful of car parks were removed – leaving 74 parks – to allow for curb widening, a crossing and additional mobility parking. It’s a busy little thoroughfare – lined with shops, a Hobbit-themed i-SITE and a reserve – but over time it has become a hazard to passing traffic.