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Mayor and Councillors to consider plan for traffic changes to allow new pedestrian space in city centre

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PUBLISHED: 13 AUG 2025
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Plans for a new western gateway to New Plymouth city centre, with more parking spaces and a green shared space between the iconic White Hart building and the Len Lye Centre will be considered when the Mayor and Councillors discuss traffic changes on Queen Street on 19 August.

The plan for the West End Crossing project includes:

  • Kerb extensions with plants that will allow for five new parking spaces in neighbouring streets.
  • A raised crossing over Devon Street between the White Hart building and the corner of Robe Street.
  • Reversing the one-way direction on Queen Street between King Street and Devon Street to create a shared space for pedestrians and cars with seating, outdoor dining and native planting.  (Traffic would remain two-way between King and St Aubyn streets.)

The proposed traffic changes will go before the Strategy and Operations Committee on Tuesday 19 August.

“The plan is to create a space where pedestrians can walk safely across Devon Street and enjoy sitting outside on one of our most iconic city centre streets,” says NPDC General Manager, Strategy and Planning Helena Williams.

“It’s a key part of our Ngāmotu New Plymouth City Centre Strategy vision for a vibrant, family-friendly city centre.

“Like city centres around the world, Ngāmotu New Plymouth is adapting to changes in the way we work, travel and shop. The West End Crossing will create a green, pedestrian-friendly and accessible gateway to the city for the thousands of people working in and visiting businesses, our celebrated attractions and the recently completed Ngāmotu House.”

Ngāti Te Whiti Hapū spokesperson Julie Healey said the design concepts through the development would reflect Ngāti Te Whiti Hapū values as supported in the City Centre Strategy.

Daniel Fleming, co-owner and General Manager of King & Queen Hotel Suites, says the vision for the finished precinct is really exciting.

“The West End Crossing would bring more life and vibrancy to the area. Once completed it would be a space for all of our district to enjoy, locals to relax in, and visitors to explore.

“It’s a small but significant step to complete this iconic part of the city. The private sector has already invested significantly; having a finished precinct will hopefully encourage more private investment in other parts of the West End and down Devon Street.”

Fast facts:

Caption: The proposed West End Crossing includes a green shared space and more car parking in the city centre

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Page last updated: 09:42am Wed 13 August 2025

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