Council decides to keep 22 London Plane trees and fix water and roading issues instead stuff.co.nz - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from stuff.co.nz Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
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.
It will remain in force for six years and remains until a further resolution takes effect. Te Aroha Councillor Russell Smith, who abstained in this week’s vote, said because he was unable to go out for consultation and follow what the people in Te Aroha want, he was unable to vote either way. “I was told to be strong, show my kia kaha,” he said. “By not going out for consultation, we’re not being transparent, consultation is important to me. “To my fellow councillors, congratulations for being strong and sticking to your beliefs on a landmark decision.”
KELLY HODEL/STUFF