Agenda of Planning and Environment Committee

Planning and Environment Committee

17 April 2018

Part A Reports

Planning and Environment Non-Financial Activity Report for the Quarter Ended 31 March 2018

Department: Community and Planning

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1 This report updates the Committee on activities including city development, resource consents, building services, alcohol licensing, environmental health, animal control and parking enforcement.

RECOMMENDATIONS

That the Committee:

a) Notes the Planning and Environment Non-Financial Activity Report for the Quarter Ended 31 March 2018.

BACKGROUND

2 The Community and Planning group of activities works with other agencies to set the direction for managing Dunedin’s built and natural environment, and is responsible for promoting the sustainable management of the natural and physical resources through its administration of the functions of the Council under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA).

3 Regulatory Services contributes directly to the Safe and Health City outcome which is a part of the Social Wellbeing Strategy and enhances personal safety in relation to building services, animal services, health licensing, the sale and supply of alcohol and parking enforcement.

DISCUSSION

Service and Satisfaction

4 The Residents’ Opinion Survey (ROS) is the principal mechanism by which the Council measures resident satisfaction with a wide range of its activities.

5 At the time of writing, March 2018 ROS results were unavailable. These will be included in the next report.

Satisfaction with Look and Feel of the City

6 An 8% decrease in satisfaction with ‘overall look and feel of the city’ was reported as at 28 February 2018.

Satisfaction with Regulatory Services

7 A 1% increase in satisfaction with ‘Regulatory Services’ was reported as at 28 February 2018.

Value and Efficiency

Resource Consents

8 During the quarter all applications were processed within the statutory timeframe. The amount processed each month was 65, 84 and 75. The graph shows resource consent processing on a monthly basis over the last five years up to March 2018. The blue line shows the percentage meeting the statutory deadline; ranges from 97 to 100. The red line shows the number of resource consents granted each month; five year average of 73. The fluctuation is normal. The December to January low points are the summer holiday period.

9 This graph also serves as an indication of overall activity in the Resource Consent team. More detailed information is provided each month as the City Planning Activity report on the Council’s website, and can be accessed via this link: http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/services/planning.

Building Consents

10 Please note the graphs for Building Consents has changed from previous reports. Overall value of work for Building Consents for this quarter remains in line with previous at $54.2M. Record numbers of building consent applications continue to be received.

11 The graph below notes the results for processing of Building Consents versus the number of live consents at the end of the month. Results for the quarter note both Building Consent applications and Code Compliance Certificates continuing to be granted/issued in line within the statutory 20 work day timeframes. The number of live consents at over 170 provides operational concern and will start to place pressure on the future results if volumes continue to track at record levels. Building Consents currently being worked on are at day 19 of the 20 day clock. Two new recruits have started mid-March although it will be some time before they become fully productive.

Alcohol Licensing

12 The number of on-licensed premises is down on the numbers for the corresponding time last year as indicated in the graphs below. Some of the decline is due to licences attached to premises that have previously ceased trading expiring. When premises cease trading and there is a current licence it remains associated with the premises until the expiry date is reached. This allows any person who wants to sell and supply alcohol at that location to obtain a ‘temporary authority’ to begin trading while their own licence application is determined.

13 Premises changing ownership are not reflected in the number of licences currently in Dunedin.

14 The number of off-licence premises and licensed clubs has both declined by one in each category with the expiry of licences attached to a business and club ceasing trade.

15 The number of special licence and manager’s certificate applications received each month fluctuates during the year depending on the season. There was an increase in special licence applications in February due to the Ed Sheeran concerts over Easter Weekend.

Environmental Health

16 The percentage of ‘A’ grade food premises remains in line with the previous months.

Environmental Health - Noise

17 The number of noise complaints received in January and March is the highest recorded in the last nine years. This increase is probably due to the warm weather and students returning back to the city.

Animal Services

18 Compared to 2016/17 figures there has been a reduction in the number of complaints about aggressive dogs and dogs attacking people, however there has been an increase in the number of complaints relating to dogs attacking stock or other dogs.

Parking Services

19 The number of infringements issued has dropped for a number of reasons, including better compliance from the public (illustrated by higher parking revenue), and the removal of some metered parks.

20 Compared to the same time in 2016/17 there has been an increase in abandoned vehicles, blocked vehicle entrance complaints and a decrease in complaints relating to blocked lease car parks. The increase in the number of parking enforcement requests is likely to be due to students returning back to the city.

Major Initiatives

21 The following section is not confined to the January to March 2018 quarter and also provide updates on the current status of the initiatives.

22 Proposed Second Generation Dunedin City District Plan (2GP) - The 2GP Hearing Panel is still meeting to finalise decisions on the 2GP, with the last meetings planned for the end of May. The planners are supporting the Panel by assisting with the drafting of decision reports and making amendments to the 2GP as a result of decisions. The Panel are working to the extended timeframe granted by the Planning & Environment Committee, which requires notification of decisions by 23 September 2018.

23 Dunedin Waterfront - Following the decision in December 2017 to include funding for the bridge in the draft 10 Year Plan, work has continued on the feasibility assessment for the bridge (including Investment Logic Mapping) and the business case required as part of NZTA funding requirements). A briefing session was held with the Minister of Regional Development Hon. Shane Jones in March and staff are now working up a bid for funding from the Provincial Growth Fund. Staff are liaising with the Ministry staff on the business case requirements and will be commissioning specialist advisers to coordinate the business case for submission by September 2018.

24 DCC Heritage Awards – Based on feedback from the judges, there will be changes to the DCC Heritage Awards this year. These changes include minor amendments to the criteria for awards and the addition of two new categories: Exteriors Heritage Award and Conservation Heritage Award. The DCC Heritage Awards will be held in June/July with the date still to be confirmed.

25 Heritage Monitoring Programme - Fieldwork for the Heritage Monitoring Programme was completed over the summer. The results of the study are being analysed at present and a report is being prepared for Council on the condition of heritage buildings across Dunedin.

26 Chorus Cabinets – The fifth round of the Chorus cabinet art project is complete. Urban designers worked with Chorus to transform more cabinets into vibrant street art. This time the focus was on the central city. Six highly visible locations were selected close to George Street, between the Octagon and Frederick Street, and near the Museum Reserve on Albany Street. All cabinet artworks have been completed by local artists.

27 Leith Working Group – The Leith Amenity Project Working Group is co-ordinating the redevelopment of the Forth Street–Otago Harbour reach of the Water of Leith. The working group includes representatives from the DCC, the Otago Regional Council, the University of Otago, the Otago Polytechnic, and Aukaha. Well known for its high concrete walls and "drain-like" environment, this section begins at Forth Street next to Gregg's Coffee Factory, and flows past the Robertson Library, the Dunedin School of Art, the College of Education and Forsyth Barr Stadium, and out into the Otago Harbour. The group is working to redesign this into a vibrant new public space for Dunedin. The Otago Regional Council is seeking feedback on this project at http://loveyourleith.orc.govt.nz.

28 South Dunedin Future - A new project team has been established with the General Manager Strategy and Governance and General Manager Infrastructure and Networks as co-sponsors. Recent developments include: work to further explore options for flood alleviation for the South Dunedin catchment and Surrey Street; and a panel of academics to support this work being established in liaison with the University of Otago. A briefing for elected members is being planned for early May, which will provide a full update on work and next steps. The Council’s Place-Based Adviser continues to support community development initiatives, and build community engagement, in South Dunedin. Groups including the South Dunedin Stakeholders group, the Street Festival group, and the various pockets of neighbourhood activation are seeing their activity have impact. A community hui led by community members, supported by the team, was held on 5 April.

29 Te Ao Tūroa - The first Environment Envoy project Awa HQ ran until mid-March and encouraged people in Dunedin to think about urban water differently. Staff are participating in the Wild Dunedin festival, coordinating several DCC events as part of this working with the Otago Regional Council and Department of Conservation. Work to deliver on the Town Belt Boost is underway, with the funding for the Town Belt Education Initiative Coordinator role in place and work progressing with stakeholders to plan a broader visioning workshop on the Town Belt’s future in late May/early June.

30 Port Environment Noise Liaison Committee – The most recent meeting of the above Committee was held on Monday 19 March 2018. Key parts were:

· Report on actions taken on the matters arising from the previous meetings included noise monitoring, community representation, and updates in the Rothesay News on the wharf construction project.

· Discussed development of a new Harbour Strategy plan; very preliminary stage.

· Noise readings taken by Port Otago used to illustrated steps taken to provide a more accurate means of identifying noise from port operations, and implementing actions to reduce noise disturbance through better work practices.

· Multipurpose wharf extension indicated is ahead of schedule, with the piling due to finish in May rather than July.

· Proposed jetty to be built at the end of the multipurpose wharf extension for community use. Information on a number of options being investigated discussed. Noted by members of the committee that there could be unintended issues arising from the addition of the new fishing wharf such as car parking and toilet facilities, due to increased activity. Agreed that the DCC should be involved in further discussions.

· Earthworks at Flagstaff Hill remains on hold at present pending clarification of options for disposal of the fill material to be excavated.

· During the question and answer forum issues were raised about dredging, traffic safety issues with logging trucks and buses, and light spill.

31 The Octagon Experience – The lower Octagon and lower Stuart Street were closed to traffic from Wednesday 28 March for six days, creating a central pedestrianised hub “for all things Ed”. The partially closed Octagon was transformed into a family-friendly space filled with temporary street furniture, surface treatments, plants, lanterns and accent lighting. The aim was to provide a space for visitors and locals to relax and enjoy the occasion with friends and family. Most furniture created and used for this project will be retained as DCC assets for use in future temporary road closures and activations.

Capital Projects

32 St Clair Upgrades – Safety and amenity upgrades were undertaken at the entry point to St Clair in late 2017 and finished last month. The upgrades included new crossing points, paving treatments, bollards, lighting specifications, new street trees and new creative street furniture to enhance the area’s sense of place. Urban designers collaborated with Zeal Steel and local artists Parry Jones and Graham Carse to produce steel and macrocarpa surfboard seats, then extended this collaboration to Pollen Inc. with a feature steel and green wall.

33 Central City Plan (CCP) – On 12 March 2018, Stantec was awarded a contract for detailed design and construction oversight of Warehouse Precinct Stage III/IV upgrades. Tendering for physical works will follow, with construction beginning in 2018. CCP options will be consulted on as part of the 10 Year Plan process.

OPTIONS

37 As this is an update report there are no options.

NEXT STEPS

38 A further update report will be provided after the conclusion of the next quarter.

Signatories

Author:

Nicola Pinfold - Group Manager Community and Planning

Authoriser:

Adrian Blair - Group Manager Customer and Regulatory Services

Sandy Graham - General Manager Strategy and Governance

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

SUMMARY OF CONSIDERATIONS

Fit with purpose of Local Government

This report relates to providing a public service and it is considered good-quality and cost-effective.

Fit with strategic framework

	Contributes	Detracts	Not applicable
Social Wellbeing Strategy	☒	☐	☐
Economic Development Strategy	☒	☐	☐
Environment Strategy	☒	☐	☐
Arts and Culture Strategy	☒	☐	☐
3 Waters Strategy	☐	☐	☒
Spatial Plan	☒	☐	☐
Integrated Transport Strategy	☒	☐	☐
Parks and Recreation Strategy	☒	☐	☐
Other strategic projects/policies/plans	☒	☐	☐

The Planning and Environment portfolio of activities support the outcomes of a number of strategies.

Māori Impact Statement

There are no known impacts for tangata whenua.

Sustainability

As an update report, there are no specific implications for sustainability.

LTP/Annual Plan / Financial Strategy /Infrastructure Strategy

As an update report, there are no implications for the LTP, although some measures are level of service performance measures annually reported as part of the LTP.

Financial considerations

The updates reported are within existing operating and capital budgets.

Significance

This decision is considered of low significance under the Significance and Engagement Policy.

Engagement – external

As an update report, no external engagement has been undertaken.

Engagement - internal

As an update report, no internal engagement has been undertaken. Input to the major initiatives and project updates has been provided by teams within Regulatory Services and Community and Planning Groups, with the Group Manager Transport also providing input regarding the Central City Plan.

Risks: Legal / Health and Safety etc.

There are no identified risks.

Conflict of Interest

There are no known conflicts of interest.

Community Boards

There are no specific implications for Community Boards.

Planning and Environment Committee

17 April 2018

Dangerous, Insanitary and Earthquake-prone Buildings Policy

Department: Corporate Policy and Customer and Regulatory Services

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1 The Building Act 2004 (the Act) requires the Council to have a Dangerous and Insanitary Buildings Policy. The existing policy on dangerous and insanitary buildings has been updated but not materially changed following amendments to the Building Act.

2 This report recommends the adoption of the Dangerous and Insanitary Buildings Policy (DIBP), following the change in legislation. The existing DIEBP will be superseded by the new policy.

3 There are two parts to the 2011 DIEBP: requirements for earthquake-prone buildings and requirements for dangerous and insanitary buildings. The Building Amendment Act 2016 (the Amendment Act) took effect on 1 July 2017 and removes the requirement for territorial authorities to have earthquake-prone building policies. The earthquake-prone building part of the policy has been superseded by the Amendment Act since 1 July 2017.

RECOMMENDATIONS

That the Committee:

a) Adopts the amended Dangerous and Insanitary Buildings Policy 2018.

BACKGROUND

4 The Council is required under section 131 of the Building Act 2004 (the Act) to adopt a policy on dangerous and insanitary buildings within its district. The policy must state:

· The approach that Dunedin City Council will take in performing its functions under the Act

· Its priorities in performing these functions and

· How the policy will apply to heritage buildings.

5 Policies must be reviewed within five years after the policy is adopted and then at intervals of not more than five years. A policy does not cease to have effect because it is due for review or being reviewed.

6 A special consultative procedure is required if the policy is amended or replaced.

7 The Council adopted its first DIEBP in 2007. It was reviewed in 2011 in light of lessons from the 2010-2011 Canterbury earthquakes.

8 On 1 July 2017, the Building (Earthquake-prone Buildings) Amendment Act 2016 took effect, introducing major changes to the way earthquake-prone buildings are identified and managed by territorial authorities.

9 The Amendment Act removes the requirement for territorial authorities to have earthquake-prone building policies and instead creates a national policy framework. This means that from 1 July 2017, the earthquake-prone buildings part of the DIEBP is superceded by the Act.

DISCUSSION

10 The Council is committed to ensuring that Dunedin is a safe and healthy place to live. The Building Act provides the means to ensure that buildings that become dangerous or insanitary are improved to meet Building Code standards, and the proposed DIBP aims to administer the Building Act in a fair and reasonable way.

11 Dangerous and insanitary buildings are dealt with by responding to complaints received and working with building owners to address the problem without delay. The proposed DIBP reflects this.

12 Adoption of the attached updated DIBP is proposed following the removal of earthquake-prone requirements (as legislated by the Amendment Act). Following review, no material changes are proposed to the rest of the policy which relates to dangerous and insanitary buildings.

13 As it is not proposed to make material amendments or replace the policy, the special consultative procedure is not required or proposed as part of the policy review.

14 The current DIBP provisions are working well. They are implemented when information is received from various possible sources and an investigation takes place which finds a building is either dangerous or insanitary.

15 The DIBP provisions are not intended to deal with demolition by neglect.

OPTIONS

Option One – Approve the amended Dangerous and Insanitary Buildings Policy (Recommended) – noting that no consultation is required as the amendment is administrative

16 This option is to approve the amended Dangerous and Insanitary Buildings Policy which is materially unchanged except for the removal of sections relating to earthquake-prone requirements for buildings (as legislated by the Amendment Act).

17 This change does not require a special consultative procedure.

Advantages

· Meets legislative requirements

· Continues a policy which is working well to address dangerous and insanitary buildings in Dunedin.

Disadvantages

· None.

Option Two – Do not adopt the proposed Dangerous and Insanitary Buildings Policy (and provide direction as to the required changes)

18 This option is not to adopt the amended Dangerous and Insanitary Buildings Policy. If the Council selects this option, direction is sought about the next steps as the Council must have a Dangerous and Insanitary Buildings Policy.

Advantages

· There are no advantages identified in this option.

Disadvantages

· Leaves the Council with an outdated policy.

NEXT STEPS

19 If the Council adopts the amended Dangerous and Insanitary Buildings Policy, staff will continue to implement the policy. If the Council wish to materially change or replace the current DIBP, the special consultative procedure will be undertaken.

Signatories

Author:

Anne Gray - Policy Analyst

Paul Henderson - Building Solutions Manager

Authoriser:

Adrian Blair - Group Manager Customer and Regulatory Services

Simon Pickford - General Manager Community Services

Attachments

	Title	Page
a	Proposed Dangerous and Insanitary Buildings Policy 2018 (Under Separate Cover)
b	Dangerous and Insanitary Buildings Policy 2011 (Under Separate Cover)

SUMMARY OF CONSIDERATIONS

Fit with purpose of Local Government

This report relates to providing a regulatory function as required by legislation.

Fit with strategic framework

	Contributes	Detracts	Not applicable
Social Wellbeing Strategy	☒	☐	☐
Economic Development Strategy	☐	☐	☒
Environment Strategy	☐	☐	☒
Arts and Culture Strategy	☐	☐	☒
3 Waters Strategy	☐	☐	☒
Spatial Plan	☒	☐	☐
Integrated Transport Strategy	☐	☐	☒
Parks and Recreation Strategy	☐	☐	☒
Other strategic projects/policies/plans	☐	☐	☒

Adopting the DIBP contributes to the strategic framework.

Specifically, it contributes to the healthy and safe people within the Social Wellbeing Strategy and liveable city; a healthy and safe environment within the Spatial Plan.

Māori Impact Statement

There are no known impacts for tangata whenua.

Sustainability

Adopting the DIBP will have limited support to the sustainability of some Dunedin buildings.

LTP/Annual Plan / Financial Strategy /Infrastructure Strategy

There are no implications for the LTP, Annual Plan, Financial Strategy or Infrastructure Strategy.

Financial considerations

There are no financial implications to adopting the DIBP.

Significance

Adopting the DIBP is considered low in terms of the Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

Engagement – external

There has been no external engagement on the DIBP.

Engagement - internal

There has been internal engagement with in-house legal counsel, City Development and Corporate Policy staff.

Risks: Legal / Health and Safety etc.

There are no known risks with adopting the DIBP.

Conflict of Interest

There is no conflict of interest.

Community Boards

There are no specific implications for Community Boards aside from the potential for dangerous and insanitary buildings within Community Board areas.

Planning and Environment Committee

17 April 2018

Dunedin's endorsement of the Global Street Design Guide

Department: Planning

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1 This report presents the Global Street Design Guide (the Guide) for consideration.

2 The Guide is a resource that Dunedin can utilise as a baseline for designing streets and public spaces.

3 Endorsement of the Guide will help encourage a broadening of how we measure the success of urban streets to include access, safety and mobility for all users, environmental quality, economic benefit, public health and overall quality of life.

RECOMMENDATIONS

That the Committee:

a) Endorses the Global Street Design Guide.

BACKGROUND

4 The Global Street Design Guide (attached under separate cover and available online at https://globaldesigningcities.org/publication/global-street-design-guide/) is a leading resource that cities and communities can choose to utilise as a baseline for designing streets and public spaces.

5 Originally from Dunedin and now based in New York City, Skye Duncan has led the development and championed endorsement of the guide as part of her role as Director of the United States’ National Association of Transport Officials (NACTO)’s Global Designing Cities Initiative (https://globaldesigningcities.org/). Ms Duncan has over a decade of experience in architecture, urban design, planning and landscape architecture, and is recognised as an international leader in placemaking efforts.

6 The Guide contains information on defining and shaping streets; measuring and evaluating streets; designing streets for great cities, for place, and for people; integrated planning strategies for utilities and infrastructure; operational and management strategies; street and intersection design; and design controls.

7 The guide encourages a broadening of how we measure the success of urban streets to include access, safety and mobility for all users, environmental quality, economic benefit, public health and overall quality of life.

8 The guide includes illustrated before-and-after examples of urban transformations that have taken place around the globe, inspiration for what might be possible in Dunedin.

DISCUSSION

9 Ms Duncan first spoke to Council in 2014. In October 2017, she delivered a public talk at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery that touched on principles and illustrated tangible examples of the Guide in practice. The event was well-attended by members of the public, DCC staff and elected officials, with positive feedback about the possibility of Dunedin embracing the guide as an effective and inspirational resource.

10 New demands placed on streets and public spaces combined with the desires of Dunedin citizens means that we find Dunedin in the midst of change, with new paradigms and perceptions emerging of the street itself. Pressures from public health to climate change to mobile technology are together reshaping and redefining cities and revealing opportunities for innovation.

11 The Guide goes beyond conventional design guidelines as a planning tool that offers guidance and vision alongside flexibility and creativity.

12 The Guide encompasses strategies and techniques that the DCC has already used as good principles of urban design. For example, the design of Jetty Street as a pedestrian‑only street follows the Guide’s suggestions to maintain clear paths, to use durable and slip-resistant materials, and to add street furniture, artwork, seating, cycle racks and landscaping that add character and support a range of activities.

13 Similarly, amenity upgrades undertaken on Vogel Street and planned along Bond Street reflect the Guide’s suggestions for shaping neighbourhood streets with kerb build-outs and other strategies to ensure accessibility and calm traffic.

14 The Guide aligns fully with Council’s strategic framework:

· Social Wellbeing Strategy: When designed with people and place in mind, streets and public spaces not only set the scene for quality lifestyles, but they can also encourage interaction between diverse individuals and groups. Over time, these interactions help to build social capital and foster inclusive communities.

· Economic Development Strategy: Well-designed streets and public spaces help to attract businesses and private investment.

· Environment Strategy: To better facilitate and secure a healthy environment now and into the future, streets should encourage active and alternative modes of transport, re-introduce green landscapes back into the city, and support environmental initiatives such as recycling.

· Arts & Culture Strategy: In efforts to further strengthen arts and culture in Dunedin, the provision of accessible, inclusive, flexible and creative public space is essential. Public space itself can serve as a kind of artistic expression of place, or can serve as a backdrop for other art and cultural activities.

· 3 Waters Strategy: What happens on and above the ground is interconnected with what happens below the ground, including a complex network of pipes essential to the city’s water services. Best practice urban design can support the delivery and maintenance of these services.

· Spatial Plan: The overall urban form objective (compact city with resilient townships) of the Spatial Plan is reinforced by street and public space design that prioritises people and place. The Guide offers concrete urban design techniques that build on the broad set of principles, strategic directions, policies and actions set out by the Spatial Plan.

· Integrated Transport Strategy: World-class street design that responds to varying degrees of place and movement priorities will support the safe and efficient movement of people and goods over the next 30 years.

· Parks & Recreation Strategy: World-class street and public space design that prioritises active modes of transport and accessible green landscapes will also help to ensure that Dunedin’s communities are more active and enjoy more time in a valued network of facilities, parks and open spaces.

15 Endorsing the Guide is a way of formalising the DCC’s commitment to good principles of urban design.

16 Auckland and Wellington have both endorsed the Guide. Endorsement would help to position Dunedin alongside Auckland, Wellington and other New Zealand cities as a leader at the forefront of urban transformations.

17 Endorsement of the Guide is public recognition of the important role that urban design has to play in Dunedin’s realisation of becoming “one of the world’s great small cities”.

OPTIONS

Option One – Recommended Option – Endorsement of the Guide

18 This option would see Dunedin officially endorse the Guide.

Advantages

· Dunedin would be seen to embrace opportunities to lead urban transformations alongside Auckland, Wellington and other cities.

· Dunedin’s measure of successful urban streets would be broadened to include access, safety and mobility for all users, environmental quality, economic benefit, public health and overall quality of life.

· Dunedin would be better equipped to respond proactively to the urban impact of changing paradigms and perceptions about public health, climate change, technology and innovation.

· Recent upgrades (eg Jetty Street) and temporary activations (eg The Octagon Experience) illustrate principles of the Guide already in action around Dunedin.

· As a baseline for designing streets and public spaces in Dunedin, the Guide’s principles can help to inform on-going and new projects. As design development and implementation of the Central City Plan and Tertiary Precinct commence, for example, the Guide can help define, shape and design – as well as measure and evaluate – the network of streets and spaces to ensure an integrated approach that prioritises people and place.

Disadvantages

· There may be mixed views on the Guide’s principles.

· There may be unrealistic expectations raised regarding urban transformations in Dunedin.

Option Two – Status Quo – Continue operating without the Guide

19 In this option Dunedin would not endorse the Guide.

Advantages

· There are no expectations raised regarding urban transformations in Dunedin.

Disadvantages

· An opportunity to lead urban transformations alongside Auckland, Wellington and other cities would be lost.

· Dunedin’s measure of successful urban streets may be limited.

· Dunedin may find itself less-than-well-equipped to respond proactively to the urban impact of changing paradigms and perceptions about public health, climate change, technology and innovation.

NEXT STEPS

20 Should the Committee endorse the Guide, City Development staff will:

a) Consider mechanisms to promote the Guide, including print and social media.

b) Present the principles and examples of the Guide to staff in other DCC departments.

c) Utilise the Guide as a baseline for designing streets and public spaces in Dunedin, using its principles to help inform on-going and new projects (eg Central City Plan and Tertiary Precinct).

Signatories

Author:

Crystal Filep - Team Leader Urban Design

Authoriser:

Anna Johnson - City Development Manager

Nicola Pinfold - Group Manager Community and Planning

Attachments

	Title	Page
a	Global Street Design Guide (Under Separate Cover)

SUMMARY OF CONSIDERATIONS

Fit with purpose of Local Government

This proposal relates to providing local infrastructure and it is considered good-quality and cost-effective.

Fit with strategic framework

	Contributes	Detracts	Not applicable
Social Wellbeing Strategy	☒	☐	☐
Economic Development Strategy	☒	☐	☐
Environment Strategy	☒	☐	☐
Arts and Culture Strategy	☒	☐	☐
3 Waters Strategy	☒	☐	☐
Spatial Plan	☒	☐	☐
Integrated Transport Strategy	☒	☐	☐
Parks and Recreation Strategy	☒	☐	☐
Other strategic projects/policies/plans	☒	☐	☐

The Global Street Design Guide is broadly aligned with Dunedin’s Strategic Framework, with the overarching vision for Dunedin as “one of the world’s great small cities”.

Māori Impact Statement

Engagement with iwi will occur during design development and implementation of any projects referencing the guide. Use of the Guide should coordinate with the cultural narrative developed to inform Central City Plan design.

Sustainability

Endorsement of the Guide will contribute to improved social, economic and environmental sustainability across the city.

LTP/Annual Plan / Financial Strategy /Infrastructure Strategy

Endorsement of the Guide does not rely or impact on existing budgets.

Financial considerations

This proposal does not have any immediate financial considerations.

Significance

This proposal is assessed as low in terms of the Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

Engagement – external

A public talk was held at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery which touched on principles and illustrated tangible examples of the Guide in practice. The event was attended by members of the public, DCC staff and elected officials.

Engagement – internal

Community and Planning, Transport, 3 Waters, Parks & Recreation and Communications & Marketing groups will all be engaged in any projects that make reference to the Guide.

Risks: Legal / Health and Safety etc.

There are no identified risks.

Conflict of Interest

There are no known conflicts of interest.

Community Boards

There are no implications for community boards.

Planning and Environment Committee

17 April 2018

The Octagon Experience Feedback

Department: Planning

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1 This report presents for consideration the feedback received to date (from 400 on-site and 150 online survey responses).

1 RECOMMENDATIONS

That the Committee:

a) Notes the feedback received to date about The Octagon Experience (5-day pedestrianisation over Easter/Ed Sheeran weekend).

BACKGROUND

2 In 2014, as part of the Annual Plan, Council requested that staff look at options to trial pedestrianisation in the Octagon and Lower Stuart Street areas.

3 The minute from the meeting on 7 May 2014 is as follows:

DRAFT 2014/15 ANNUAL PLAN SUBMISSIONS (continued)

i) Closing of Lower Octagon to traffic

A discussion took place on the proposal to close the lower Octagon and Lower Stuart Street.

It was moved (Hawkins/Benson-Pope):

Councillor MacTavish withdrew from this item.

"That Council staff develop options to trial the pedestrianisation of the Lower Octagon, and the first block of Lower Stuart St from the Octagon to Moray Place."

Motion carried

4 Subsequently, Dunedin Venues Management Limited secured the Ed Sheeran concerts for Easter weekend 2018 and a trial closure of the Octagon and Lower Stuart Street was planned to coincide with that event.

5 The lower Octagon and Lower Stuart Street were closed to traffic for six days from Wednesday 28 March. The purpose of the closure was to create a central pedestrianised hub to help showcase Dunedin to more than 70,000 visitors and to local residents during Ed Sheeran’s concerts over Easter weekend. The partially closed Octagon was transformed with temporary street furniture, surface treatments, plants, lanterns, accent lighting and a large-scale snakes and ladders board installed on the pavers. The aim was to provide a space for visitors and locals to relax and enjoy the unique occasion with friends and family.

6 To gauge The Octagon Experience, staff set up a short survey to gather feedback.

7 Both on-site and online versions of the survey asked these questions:

· On a scale 1-5, how much do you like The Octagon Experience?

1 (I don’t like it at all) 2 3 (Neutral) 4 5 (I really like it)

· What do you like most about The Octagon Experience?

(open text field)

· Is there anything you don’t like?

(open text field)

· Is there anything else you want to say about it?

(open text field)

· Are you: □ Visiting Dunedin □ Dunedin resident

DISCUSSION

8 Independent contractors were on site from 29 March through 1 April (four days) to gather feedback from 400 respondents. The cross tabulation report from on-site responses shows:

· 92.8% of the 400 respondents rated The Octagon Experience either 4 or 5 out of 5.

· 48.5% of the 400 respondents rated The Octagon Experience 5 out of 5.

· 41% of the respondents were Dunedin residents and 59% visitors to Dunedin.

· 56.7% of the Dunedin resident respondents rated The Octagon Experience 5 out of 5 compared to 42.8% of the respondents visiting Dunedin.

· 0% of the 400 respondents rated The Octagon Experience 1 or 2 out of 5.

9 Independent contractors on site noted the following from conversations they had with respondents:

· There were family groups with children relaxing in The Octagon before heading to the concert.

· Locals seemed to think that closing off the traffic for the weekend was a good idea and it was so much better without the traffic. In their opinion it really hadn’t impeded traffic flow within the CBD. One family who went to the concert on Thursday night were in The Octagon for the third time enjoying a meal from the food truck. They said they were repeat visitors to The Octagon as they enjoyed the ambience and wanted to support the DCC initiative.

· Aspects that people really liked included: the area being closed off from traffic, very kid friendly and safe, atmosphere, bright colours, vibrant, cheerful, great vibe ambience, a hub to relax, quirkiness, seating, painted tyre planters, knitting on the seats and in the tree, painting, interactive snakes and ladders game, shuttle service and walking with bag pipes to the stadium and the family friendly area separated from the drinking in the bars.

· Suggestions included more food trucks, more variety of food, longer opening hours of the food trucks, entertainment on Sunday, dismantling the stage when there was no entertainment, retaining the Ed Sheeran merchandise store in the Octagon, live music, karaoke performing Ed Sheeran songs, street entertainers, more interactive games, more signage and an information board (ie directions to the mural, to the shuttles, timing for the bag piper leading people to the stadium, etc).

10 Online feedback is open until 30 April 2018, and has already received 150 responses. Cross tabulation of online responses to date shows:

· 91.3% of the 150 respondents rated The Octagon Experience either 4 or 5 out of 5.

· 84.6% of the 150 respondents rated The Octagon Experience 5 out of 5.

· 92% of the respondents were Dunedin residents and 8% visitors to Dunedin.

· 84.8% of the Dunedin resident respondents rated The Octagon Experience 5 out of 5 compared to 83.3% of the respondents visiting Dunedin.

· 8% of the 150 respondents rated The Octagon Experience 1 or 2 out of 5.

11 Of the 91.3% of people who rated the experience either 4 or 5, a selection of comments is as below:

· “It was AWESOME!! We are Dunedin locals and we loved soaking up the atmosphere in the Octagon. Loved all the added things to do in the Octagon and the lawn furniture and decorations.”

· “I'd like to see motor vehicles out of the Octagon altogether, and that may have to happen in stages – allowing buses through the central carriageway initially, but I'd like to see all traffic confined to the roads outside of the Octagon.”

· “I'm confused why it's not closed like this all the time. I'm struggling to think of another city that has traffic going through its main hub. Traffic is hardly put out by it being closed.”

· “I would love to see this as a permanent feature of Dunedin. It is great place for locals and really great for tourists to enjoy.”

· “Loved the atmosphere of it. People were out having fun everywhere you looked. The street plantings and outdoor furniture was pretty. My son loved the snakes and ladders game. It would be awesome to have games like that all the time. Especially if the board could rotate a couple of different games each month. I liked the street being closed to traffic. It is quieter, smelled better for those eating outdoors, and is just more enjoyable.”

· “Many of us have asked for a car free central city for years where other cities have these zones they are a huge Success e.g. Cuba St Wellington it brings more business and life to the city, not less. Now the busses are being pushed out there is to excuse.”

· “The ease of access in a space that is clearly focusing around pedestrian usage. It felt natural and was an absolute pleasure to recreate in the octagon while unnecessary traffic passed by on the other streets.”

· “Cities are defined by their public hubs, Martin Place and Circular Quay in Sydney are great examples. It’s nice to close the ring road around the lower Octagon from time to time and feel like a modern city...without the over crowding!”

· “I am not a fan of Ed Sheeran but I applaud the DCC and how they handled such an opportunity – Dunedin as a destination. My hat is off to everyone involved.”

· “It's great to have these things set up for tourists and events, but what about those of us who live here? Many cities world wide have car-free zones and businesses and residents all benefit. Let's do it here and make Dunedin awesome for those of us who live here, and not just for Ed Sheeran fans.”

12 Below are a selection of comments of the 8% who rated The Octagon Experience unfavourably with a 1 or 2 out of 5:

· “If the lower Octagon is made traffic-free the area will be an unattractive empty space most of the rest of the time. Ask any Christchurch residents (I am one) about what happened to their central city when the Cashel St Mall area was pedestrianised - shops closed one after the other. By all means close the lower Octagon for special events, but keep it alive at other times.”

· “The vans and freezers detracted. They looked awful. I think tent-like erections cheapen the whole experience. The trees in lower Stuart St blocked the very special view down to the Railway Station.”

· “I feel unsafe in the Octagon at night with all of the intoxicated people on the footpath outside of the bars that seem to spill further out of the bars all of the time and seem to not like people walking through the covered area even when it is raining.”

· “I feel that a small number of bar owners will profit from this getting a lot of extra space for very little overheads.”

· “After the show the queues to get into the bars were massive and long and running the atmosphere. Need more bar capacity or street bars to improve ambience.”

· “Not enough music. Would have been nice to have people entertaining for example bands dancing musicians. We went into the Octagon 4 out of the 6 days and not once was there any entertainment.”

· “More food and drink stalls needed. That fake grass was stupid and uncomfortable to sit on. More variety of things to do was needed.”

· “The palette benches could have been a bit prettier but I'm assuming if this was a regular occurrence, the fixtures would be a little more ‘finished’ looking.”

· “Don't allow the idiot who knitted shit to do that again, waste of time and looked horrible!”

13 Two retail businesses have voiced concerns about road closures and/or pedestrianisation of the area. Staff have noted these concerns and will follow up with all businesses in the area for feedback, to be reported back to the Committee alongside complete survey findings after 30 April 2018.

14 Online respondents to date liked the area being closed off from traffic, the overall feeling or atmosphere, having a relaxed meeting place in the CBD, the furniture and decorations, the greenery (temporary plants and trees), the cheerful colours, the vibrancy or liveliness, outdoor dining, the fact that it was family friendly, the events and other activations, and that it welcomed not only visitors but also locals.

15 Online respondents to date have suggested a larger pedestrianised area, more native trees, more plants, more live music, different stage orientation, more activities, more use of the road space, more affordable eating options, shelter options in case of rain, less intrusive bar areas, trying different colour schemes and/or furniture, better directional signage and making the area smoke-free. Respondents have also stressed the importance of supportive infrastructure (eg public transport).

16 47.3% of the 150 online respondents to date commented that they would like to see the Octagon pedestrianised permanently or for part of the time (eg during summer months or over weekends).

OPTIONS

17 As this is a noting report, no options are presented.

NEXT STEPS

18 After the online survey feedback period closes on 30 April 2018, City Development staff will report back to the Committee with complete survey findings and possible next steps.

Signatories

Author:

Crystal Filep - Team Leader Urban Design

Authoriser:

Anna Johnson - City Development Manager

Nicola Pinfold - Group Manager Community and Planning

Sandy Graham - General Manager Strategy and Governance

Attachments

	Title	Page
a	The Octagon Experience Layout Plan	45
b	The Octagon Experience Photos	47

SUMMARY OF CONSIDERATIONS

Fit with purpose of Local Government

This report enables democratic local decision making and action by, and on behalf of communities.

Fit with strategic framework

	Contributes	Detracts	Not applicable
Social Wellbeing Strategy	☒	☐	☐
Economic Development Strategy	☒	☐	☐
Environment Strategy	☒	☐	☐
Arts and Culture Strategy	☒	☐	☐
3 Waters Strategy	☐	☐	☒
Spatial Plan	☒	☐	☐
Integrated Transport Strategy	☐	☐	☒
Parks and Recreation Strategy	☒	☐	☐
Other strategic projects/policies/plans	☐	☐	☐

The Octagon Experience (5-day temporary pedestrianisation over Easter/Ed Sheeran weekend) was consistent with other strategies and plans.

Māori Impact Statement

There are no known impacts for tangata whenua.

Sustainability

The Octagon Experience contributed to positive economic, social and environmental outcomes during a major holiday and concert weekend. Social sustainability was supported through the opportunity for increased social interaction in a key public space. Environmental sustainability was supported through the temporary increase of urban greenery which may inform future upgrades as per public feedback.

LTP/Annual Plan / Financial Strategy /Infrastructure Strategy

There are no known implications.

Financial considerations

The Octagon Experience cost $60,000.

Significance

This report is assessed as low in terms of the Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

Engagement – external

To successfully realise The Octagon Experience, Urban Designers in City Development worked collaboratively with key stakeholders and other external parties to deliver a successful project:

· Affected parties (surrounding building owners and their tenants)

· Traffic management professionals

· Otago Regional Council

· Taxi operators

· Emergency services

· Tour operators

· Community groups

· Sponsors

· Contractors.

Engagement - internal

To successfully realise The Octagon Experience, Urban Designers in City Development worked collaboratively with the following teams to deliver a successful project:

· Events and Community Development

· Transport Strategy

· Transport Delivery

· Parks and Recreation

· Enterprise Dunedin

· Communications

· Marketing and Design

· Projects and Asset Management

· Environmental Health and Alcohol Licensing

· Solid Waste.

Risks: Legal / Health and Safety etc.

There are no known risks.

Conflict of Interest

There are no known conflicts of interest.

Community Boards

There are no implications for community boards.

Chairperson	Cr David Benson-Pope
Deputy Chairperson	Cr Damian Newell	Cr Conrad Stedman
Members	Mayor Dave Cull	Cr Rachel Elder
	Cr Christine Garey	Cr Doug Hall
	Cr Aaron Hawkins	Cr Marie Laufiso
	Cr Mike Lord	Cr Jim O'Malley
	Cr Chris Staynes	Cr Lee Vandervis
	Cr Andrew Whiley	Cr Kate Wilson

	Title	Page
a	Register of Interest	7