The Links Avenue safety improvements project was initiated in response to community concerns raised about student safety and findings from an independent safety review of Links Avenue. Initially, the bus lanes were removed, and access restrictions were implemented to reduce the amount of traffic using the avenue as a thoroughfare during peak times. We worked with the Links Avenue Community Panel to implement changes, including relocating bus stops, improved pedestrian crossing facilities, traffic calming measures, and cycle lane separators.
Interim safety improvements update
In early 2024, we implemented an interim safety improvement design for Links Avenue. This design, approved by Council on 26 February 2024, was based on recommendations from the former Links Avenue Community Panel to enhance safety along the avenue. These improvements are temporary and have been helping us learn what works for the community before implementing any permanent changes. A site inspection has indicated some minor repairs, maintenance, and updates are required.
Our work will include:
- removing one island between 29 Links Avenue and Mount Maunganui Intermediate
- maintenance and upgrades to drains and some temporary bollards
- enhancing selected cycle onramps and installing yellow tactile pavers at bus stops and pedestrian crossings where necessary to improve accessibility and visibility
- signage work involving the removal of unused signpost bases and repositioning of signs
- removing one of the concrete barriers on Links Avenue in front of 8 Golf Road to improve access to a new driveway
- improving selected kerbs, pedestrian crossings, and shared pedestrian and cycle pathways at the intersections of Links Avenue with Concord Avenue, and Farm Street with Concord Avenue
- refreshing line markings on Carter Street at its intersection with Concord Avenue
We're starting these works on Monday, 18 November 2024, weather permitting, and aim to complete them within three weeks. Most of the work will take place Monday to Friday, 7am to 7pm, with occasional work on select Saturdays and Sundays. No night work is planned. Some activities may cause temporary noise and dust.
Traffic management
A stop/go system and reduced speed limits will be in place throughout the works to keep everyone safe. At times, we will close shoulder lanes, and pedestrians will sometimes need to take detours onto the adjacent berms. Please follow the signage and guidance from our traffic management team.
Rubbish collection
Please continue to take your bin out as normal. The kerbside collection team will work with our crew onsite to ensure they still empty your bins.
Parking and cars
During the works, access to your driveway is unlikely to be impacted. However, if your driveway will be affected, our team will let you know in advance.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we complete this work in your area.
Links Avenue access restriction trial
In March 2022, we introduced access restrictions to help reduce traffic on the avenue during peak times and create a safer area for our community. Since then, we've been trialling different access times to determine the most effective approach.
A new trial was introduced in July 2024 to give residents and visitors more ways to move around during restricted hours without needing an exemption or risking a fine. Links Avenue's restricted hours are Monday to Friday, 7am - 10am and 2pm - 4pm (including public holidays and school holidays), and these hours were established based on peak travel times. There are no restrictions outside of these hours.
Residents and visitors can avoid a fine during the restricted hours by:
- Entering and exiting Links Avenue from the same point at any time (e.g. enter Links Avenue through Concord Avenue and exit through Concord Avenue).
- Ensuring at least 15 minutes have passed between entering and exiting Links Avenue from different roads (e.g. enter through Concord Avenue and exit through Golf Road).
What’s next?
The trial is scheduled for review in December 2024 at a council meeting, where a decision will be made on the future of the avenue.
Stay informed
To keep up to date, you can visit this web page for the latest news, or please sign up for the Tauranga City Councils Weekly Bulletin for news on Links Avenue and other projects.
If you have any questions or concerns about the project, please email us at linksavenue@tauranga.govt.nz.