Raised safety platforms on Heaton Street, Christchurch
Students of Heaton Normal Intermediate were concerned with distracted drivers, visibility and speed outside their school, so they developed a school travel plan and shared it with Christchurch City Council to make real change.
Heaton Street is a hub of activity, not only for the students of Heaton Normal Intermediate getting to and from school—but is also used by students of Elmwood Primary, people visiting the surrounding parks, as well as people accessing St George’s private hospital.
From this plan the council and Waimāero Fendalton-Waimairi-Harewood Community Board upgraded the kea crossing on Heaton Street to a new raised signalised crossing, including newly painted cycle lanes.
The changes have had a positive effect in the community, with people driving safer through the area, particularly during high volume times of the day. The traffic is flowing more evenly, allowing for the safe crossing of students in larger numbers than previous school patrols.
