13/07/2021
The Cobham Drive Bay Connection is a $10M newly developed two-way off-road cycleway and separate footpath that is part of the Government's Urban cycle ways programme and the Wellington City cycle ways programme to build a safe and connected cycle network. The design goal was to improve safety, upgrade the resilience of the coastline and enhance the area as an attractive gateway to Wellington City. Downer was awarded the contract to construct a three-meter wide two-way cycleway and a separate two-meter-wide walking path between Shelly Bay Road and Evans Bay Parade. Partway through the programme, a variation was required to construct a new rock revetment along the foreshore with over 9000TN of rip-rap armour and underlay rock. The additional future-proofing work was required to further improve the resilience of the coastline in what is an exposed area.
A multidiscipline brownfields project, the pathway included the following key elements:
This project showcases Downer's collaborative contract management, ability to overcome challenges, flexibility to changes in design and partnered environmental management approach. We overcame many challenges, including a significant design variation for the construction of a new revetment wall. We also worked closely with Council and DOC on environmental protection, including penguin management, working with contaminated ground and inclement weather.
This project highlights our ability to deliver a high profile community project focussing on environmental management, protection of people, excellence in engineering and collaborative contract management.
As a popular commuter route from the East and visitor and recreational destination, the route forms part of Tahitai and Te Aranui o Pōneke/ the Great Harbour Way. As a gateway to and fromWellington Airport, the newly constructed pathway has transformed the area into a beautiful entrance to the city and the Wellington harbour.
The successful completion of the project demonstrates:
Construction of the new two-way bike path and separate footpath now provides a safer and more enjoyable area for everyone. The beautification elements of landscaping, planting, seats, and bike parking now provide places where people can enjoy the views.
"it is fantastic to see this important section of the walking and cycling route from the east complete and in use." Deputy Mayor Sarah Free