A planned tree-planted median strip in Riccarton Rd will be shortened and have fewer trees than originally planned, to ensure there are no barriers for emergency services.

The median island will run between Clarence and Matipo Streets, and is part of a project to replace and upgrade outdated underground pipes, and rebuild the road to accommodate bus priority measures between Harakeke and Matipo Streets.

City Council transport planning and delivery manager Lynette Ellis said the adjustments will ensure the median island is easier to negotiate for emergency services.

The trees will remain through the central shopping area of Riccarton Rd. However, there will be 10 fewer trees than originally planned at the outer edges of the project and around intersections.

Work on the median strip is expected to start in April 2020.

School bus parking
School bus parking will be created on Riccarton Rd near Kirkwood Intermediate School to improve the safety and convenience of school buses picking up pupils. The Halswell-Hornby-Riccarton Community Board has approved installing “school buses only” parking restrictions.