Cornwall Park – a car-free future?2 min read

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One of the upsides of lockdown was the huge drop of traffic around town, making it quieter, less polluted, and safer to bike and walk. Cornwall Park was also more peaceful, closing all its gates during levels 4 and 3 to motorised vehicles, which allowed walkers, runners and cyclists to self-distance and enjoy the space.

The summit of Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill has been closed to vehicles for some time; this area is separate to Cornwall Park, and managed by the Tupuna Maunga Authority.  However, Cornwall Park Trust and the Tūpuna Maunga Authority work closely in the operation of Maungakiekie, One Tree Hill Domain, and Cornwall Park.

At level 2, car entries have now been opened at Manukau Road and Greenlane West Road to allow car parking and easy access to the cafes, Stardome and Sorrento event centre.  All private vehicle thoroughfare through Maungakiekie, One Tree Hill Domain and Cornwall Park will remain closed through level 2. Additional car parking has been made available by the ASB Showgrounds on Greenlane West Road.

“It has been heart-warming to see so many families walking and cycling and enjoying the quiet ambience of Cornwall Park, even though the park vehicle gates have been closed. We thank local residents for their patience with carparking in neighbouring streets,” says Cornwall Park Trust Board chair Adrienne Young-Cooper.

“We will use this time to trial and assess the workability of these arrangements in the enjoyment of the Maunga and park, while allowing limited car access especially for those with very young children, the elderly and those with disabilities. The parts of the roads remaining closed through level 2 will allow most of the Maunga circuit road to be used for walking and cycling, while maintaining physical distancing,“ says Mrs Young-Cooper

The closure of roads as a permanent measure in Cornwall Park is something that will be consider in future plans. Meanwhile, should you wish to give feedback about this, email info@cornwallpark.co.nz.