Review of Apec traffic plan

By Mathew Dearnaley

AUCKLAND - Apec organisers are reviewing traffic-management planning for the September economic summit in Auckland after rejecting a draft as "unrealistically extensive."

Auckland City councillors will be briefed on a revised proposal this week, although a police spokeswoman, Robyn Orchard, said there would be no changes to road closures.

She said the traffic-management plan would deal with the effects of those closures, such as where to relocate bus stops.

Albert St, Vincent St, Greys Ave, Mayoral Drive, part of Queen St and a couple of side streets will be closed to unofficial traffic from September 11 to 13 for security purposes while motorcades ferry world leaders about town.

Three main routes and three secret alternative passages between the city and airport will be closed as and when needed.

Police will ensure manholes are sealed along key routes, although Robyn Orchard said drainage workers could gain emergency access to them.

The city council's transport and roading committee heard on Friday that the Government's Apec taskforce considered a draft traffic-management plan from consultants to be unrealistically extensive.

A council transport official, Keith Bell, said the taskforce had consulted the police and was reviewing the plan to reflect agreed operational changes.

He noted reservations the city council held about the initial draft, particularly impacts that no-stopping restrictions on inner-suburban main roads would have on businesses.