PROJECTS

Basin Grandstand Mooted To Block Flyover

By Iain MacIntyre

Traffic planners may be asked to build a new grandstand at the northern end of the Basin Reserve, in Wellington, to block spectators’ view of a traffic flyover proposed as part of the Ngauranga to Airport Draft Corridor Plan.

Concerned the traffic corridor work will affect the aesthetics of the ground, the Basin Reserve Trust is understood to be proposing a six-storey stand spanning 60 metres between the main stand and the grass embankment.

The development could provide state-of-the-art player facilities and hospitality areas, as well as indoor and outdoor seating. It could also increase the ground’s current spectator capacity of 11,600, enable an upgrade of what is currently a somewhat rundown area of the facility and provide the opportunity for an eye-catching entrance to be developed.

A cost for the stand is yet to be established, but it is understood funding would be sought from the Wellington City Council, Greater Wellington Regional Council and New Zealand Transport Agency.
Basin Reserve Trust spokesperson, John Morrison was recently reported as allaying fears such a modern development would detract from the charm of the 140-year-old venue.

“We will go to unbelievable lengths to ensure that everything fits in with the character and history of the Basin,” he said.

“There is no intention whatsoever of touching the embankment. It is an iconic feature of the ground and it links directly to its success.

“We will end up with an absolutely magnificent ground.”

A spokesperson for the Greater Wellington Regional Council advised Construction News that no decisions had yet been made on the flyover design and that the public would be fully consulted next year on the options.

According to the Draft Corridor Plan, traffic planners already appear mindful of the potential impacts of any proposed developments.

“Part of the consideration of the development of the road around the Basin Reserve is to revitalise it as a public space and make it more accessible via public transport while also improving walking and cycling opportunities,” states the document.

“The alterations will need to be designed carefully to enhance the area and create a grand entrance to the Basin.

“The artist’s impression showing a flyover, grand new Basin Reserve entrance and improved public transport hub gives one idea of how the area could look in the future.”

Potential developments around the Basin Reserve, which are expected to commence about 2010-2011 at a cost of $33 million, intend to separate east-west traffic from north-south flows and provide passenger transport improvements on Kent Terrace, Cambridge Terrace and Adelaide Road.

“The competing needs of north-south and east-west traffic, plus proposed developments around the Basin such as a supermarket and an intention to increase the use of the Basin for sporting and other events, mean that road capacity will be reached in the next few years,” states the Draft Corridor Plan.

“This will create extensive delays to all forms of transport.

“Installation of the proposed public transport spine – bus lanes, bus way and light rail will require a major upgrade to the configuration of the road around the Basin Reserve.

“Added to this is the need to cater for the development of Adelaide Road and Newtown and improve access to schools in the area and Government House. These improvements will provide benefits without the need to duplicate the Mt Victoria Tunnel.”