Research – Page 11 – 10 Shirley Road

CCC Shirley Community Reserve Consultation

Below are some key points regarding the CCC Shirley Community Reserve Consultation (modular pump track and multi-purpose concrete table/seating, 10 Shirley Road, Richmond, former Shirley Community Centre site).
Children’s Petition:
– Thirty Shirley Primary School students signed/presented a petition to the Papanui-Innes Community Board to ask for a skate park in MacFarlane Park, Shirley. (August 2018)
– After the Board’s decision, the student who presented the petition was quoted in the local newspaper: “temporary [modular] pump track is not the option he wants”. (December 2018)
Council Report:
– “Project Brief: Tracks can be permanent or modular design. In this case a modular design is preferred allowing for future relocation.” (see ‘Funding’ Decision Matrix link below)
– Only a Modular track option was considered. A Permanent track option was not considered.
– “A location near Jebson Street beside the flying fox, toilets and Shirley Community Gardens was also considered, however, this has a separation of 25m between residents and the pump track. Further noise information would be required if this site was preferred over the site near Emmett Street.”
– “There is currently no funding available in the 2018 – 2028 Long Term Plan.”
– “There is a risk that if the Community Board decide to do nothing that the [Shirley] community will continue to demand this type of facility.”
Funding:
– Council staff recommended a 2021 – 2031 Long Term Plan bid for funding.
– The Board “request that the Parks Team explore alternative funding to action the project within the financial year.”
– 2018/19 Capital Endowment Fund Application, Decision Matrix: https://christchurch.infocouncil.biz/Open/2019/03/CNCL_20190328_AGN_3367_AT.htm#PDF3_Attachment_22966_2
Proposed Location:
– Shirley Community Reserve, is at 10 Shirley Road, Richmond, the site of the former Shirley Community Centre.
– The reserve does not have toilets. The closest toilets are at Jebson Street, https://goo.gl/maps/gGXTAKXf5hmvJrwy7, by the flying fox at MacFarlane Park South Playground.
– The Council/Board/staff are currently discussing future plans for the 10 Shirley Road site.
– The “Richmond Community Needs Analysis” has been received by the Board.
– The “Community Facilities Network Plan” has been received by the Council Committee, and is currently in ‘Public Excluded Items’.
https://christchurch.infocouncil.biz/Open/2019/06/SOC_20190612_MIN_3838_AT.htm#PDF2_ReportName_23695
Noise Issues:
– The Environmental Health team have recommended that Council engage an independent noise engineer to test a modular pump track at Burwood and use readings to suggest a suitable distance [40m] between the proposed [modular] pump track and residents to ensure compliance with the District Plan.
– The Modular pump track cannot be located in MacFarlane Park, Shirley, due to the above noise issues, relating to the 11 modular track section joins.
Safety Issues:
– “Motorists running red lights on a signalised pedestrian crossing Shirley Rd [between Shirley Community Reserve and Shirley Primary School] have posed a major threat to pupils.”
– The Board have been aware of safety issues with the lights/crossing on Shirley Road since 2017, when I emailed my concerns/suggestions (which included delaying the pedestrian crossing signal change phase).
Proposed Track:
– $81,000 Quadragon Modular Pump Track (48m track, 20.7m long, 10.3m wide, track width approx 1.2m)
– $1,050 Noise test of existing pump track at the corner of Brooker Avenue and New Brighton Road, Burwood (to ensure pump track proposed at Shirley Community Reserve complies with the noise standards of the District Plan)
– $5,000 Development of concept plan for community engagement and project management fees
– $200 per annum required for two years (monthly cleaning, maintenance and inspection)
– The pump track is imported from overseas, so exchange rates may result in an increase in cost.
– The expected life span of the modular pump track is 10 years.
– $16,400 for site works [same cost to relocate track to the next site], which includes temporary fencing, excavating 50mm of top surface, installing timber edging and peg’s, supply of geo-textile and compacted GAP20 (fine gravel). This is for an area of 209m2.
Proposed Table:
– Cost: $5,000 for concrete multi-purpose table. Extra cost for concrete seating/benches.
– “A resident from the Richmond area spoke to the Community Board regarding concerns over the condition of the 10 Shirley Road site. The resident felt the site was overgrown and untidy and that there was a lack of seating in the area.”
– John Stringer and Mike Davidson (Innes Ward) requested that their vote against the decision [to purchase a concrete multipurpose table] be recorded.
– There has been much debate online and in the local papers questioning the cost and safety issues (concrete table near playground, wayward ping pong balls near a busy main road).
– A table tennis table needs approx 2 metres behind each end of the table, and 1 metre each side of the table, to be able to play table tennis.
– Since the debate, a wooden picnic table has been anonymously placed in the Shirley Community Reserve.
– The seating/picnic table that the resident original asked the Board for, has been kindly donated by someone in our community.
Shirley Residents:
– Shirley Primary School students asked for a skate park in MacFarlane Park. Shirley residents have been asking the Board since 2001, and they still have no local skate facilities, for local children unable to travel outside of their neighbourhood.
– If the proposed location is approved by the Board, Shirley children will be forced to cross a busy main road, Shirley Road, with known safety issues.
– ‘Shirley Needs Analysis (2001)’, recommended the development of skateboard facilities in MacFarlane Park.
– In response to requests from Shirley residents, a skate path is being planned for MacFarlane Park next to the flying fox on Jebson St. (2003)
– “Other parks were also considered but are outside of the community focus area and would not cater for local children unable to travel outside of their [Shirley] neighbourhood.” (2004)
– ‘Shirley MacFarlane Park Community Concept Plan (2005-2008), recommended the development of skateboard facilities in MacFarlane Park.
– “Shannon’s question was ‘Do you want a Scooter, Skate and Bike Park for Shirley? We want to ask the Christchurch City Council if we can put one in at MacFarlane Park.’” (2018)
– I contacted the design/construction business involved with the Gap Filler #detour pump track on Manchester Street. A ballpark figure for a permanent track/path around the flying fox in MacFarlane Park/Jebson Street: “for the $71,000 for the modular pump track you will get a pretty good asphalt pump track, potentially up to 140 square metres worth maybe even more depending on how complex of a design you are looking at”.
Richmond Residents:
– There are noise issues related to this modular pump track design, see ‘Noise Issues’ above.
– The proposed pump track/multi purpose table location, is very visible from Shirley Road, and could attract anti-social behaviour into this area, especially at night.
– This is not a permanent facility. This is a temporary facility, to activate the 10 Shirley Road site, and then it will be relocated to another suburb.
– If you look at the Landscape Plan (on the left hand side), at the back of the Shirley Community Reserve, there are already existing ‘permanent asphalt’ paths running along in front of Dudley Creek.
St Albans Residents:
– Staff have received requests from youth previously around extending the [St Albans] skate park, including a request from youth in 2014 and a request in March 2017 for an extension of the [St Albans] skate park to include building a skate bowl.
– A group of 16 children from St Albans School presented their design ideas for a planned extension to the St Albans skate park to Council staff members who were invited to attend a meeting at the school. (May 2019)
– Community suggestions will soon be sent to the skate park designer. We hope to hold public consultation on a draft plan [St Albans Skate Park Extension] by November [2019].
Papanui Ward Residents:
– Community leaders are pushing for more facilities for young people in the Christchurch suburb of Papanui. ‘Both Papanui and Redwood are missing a good outdoor youth recreational facility and potentially we may need to look at two facilities in the Papanui ward.’ (2017)
– Sites in the Papanui Ward have been identified for a skate park but it could be up to 12 years before anyone gets to use it.
– No money was available for the project in the council budget, but the community board planned to lobby to get money included in the council’s 10-year budget, the Long Term Plan, to be considered next year [2018].

For more background information/research links/timeline:
– https://www.riseuprichmond.nz/proposed-pump-track-for-shirley/
– https://www.riseuprichmond.nz/papanui-innes-skate-facilities/

Here is the link to the “Have Your Say” CCC Shirley Community Reserve Consultation:
– https://ccc.govt.nz/the-council/consultations-and-submissions/haveyoursay/show/252
Here is the link to the landscape plan for the Shirley Community Reserve pump track and multi-use concrete table:
– https://ccc.govt.nz/assets/Images/Consultation/2019/06-June/Shirley-Pump-Track/Plans.pdf
Q. Do you support the landscape plan for the Shirley Community Reserve pump track and multi-use concrete table?
A. Yes, No, Do you have any comments on the plan?
Q. Where would you prefer the multi-use table to be located?
A. Location A, Location B, Other location (please describe below), Comments – Please be as specific as possible

Open for feedback: 1st July 2019 – 29th July 2019

Papanui-Innes Skate Facilities

This post is a timeline of the engagement and consultations, by the Papanui-Innes Community Board and Council staff, with the communities in the Papanui-Innes Ward, regarding skate path/park facilities in their neighbourhoods/suburbs.

In 2001:
– “Board members will recall that the ‘Shirley Needs Analysis (2001)’ identified a lack of teenage recreational opportunities in central Shirley and recommended the development of skateboard facilities in MacFarlane Park.”
(http://archived.ccc.govt.nz/council/agendas/2004/february/shirleypapanui4feb/macfarlanepark.pdf)

In 2003:
– March 2003: “Shirley Research Update
The purpose of this report is to update Community Board members on the progress in relation to recommendations made in the Shirley research (“It’s a Lot of Little Things Happening That Will Make the Difference”).
Support For Youth: 1. The skateboard facility consultation is almost complete with site and designs ready for construction.”
(http://archived.ccc.govt.nz/Council/Agendas/2003/March/ShirleyPapanui/ShirleyResearchUpdate.pdf)
– “Press Release: Christchurch City Council, Tuesday, 4 March 2003, ‘New skate facility planned for MacFarlane Park’
In response to requests from Shirley residents, a skate path is being planned for MacFarlane Park next to the flying fox on Jebson St. The path and obstacles have been designed with input from local young skateboarders, to provide a recreation asset for the local community.
Parks & Waterways Area Advocate Kirsty Patten said that several sites within the park has been investigated. ‘The Jebson Street site was selected as the best option because it is visible from the road, is co-located with another youth facility, has new toilets and a drinking fountain, and has plenty of space. The area will be landscaped and have seating provided for family and friends to come and watch the skateboarders,’ said Kirsty Patten. Comments on the proposal are currently being sought from local residents before the final plan is approved.”
(http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK0303/S00015/new-skate-facility-planned-for-mcfarlane-park.htm)
– August 2003: Parks and Waterways Capital Programme 2003/04 – Shirley/Papanui Board, Recreational Facilities, MacFarlane Park Skateboard Facilities (CFWD), $46,583, Awaiting Consultation Outcome
(http://archived.ccc.govt.nz/Council/Agendas/2003/August/ShirleyPapanui/Clause8Attachment.pdf)

In 2004:
– “MacFarlane Park – Proposed Skate Path. The purpose of this report is to seek a decision from the Board on the provision of a skate facility in MacFarlane Park.”
“Board members will recall that the ‘Shirley Needs Analysis (2001)’ identified a lack of teenage recreational opportunities in central Shirley and recommended the development of skateboard facilities in MacFarlane Park [Shirley]. The Board has allocated total funding of $45,000 since 2001/02 towards a skate facility.”
“Other parks were also considered but are outside of the community focus area and would not cater for local children unable to travel outside of their [Shirley] neighbourhood.”
“Staff Recommendation: 1. That a skate facility and youth recreation be included alongside wider issues to be investigated within the Acheson Avenue Urban Renewal Action Plan.”
(http://archived.ccc.govt.nz/council/agendas/2004/february/shirleypapanui4feb/macfarlanepark.pdf)

In 2005-2008:
– “Shirley MacFarlane Park Community Concept Plan. Supported by the Shirley Inter-Agency Community Network. This is a community concept plan developed through a community planning process since 2005.
MacFarlane Park and the Acheson Ave shops are in the physical centre of the study area and are the focus of this community concept plan because community feedback from the Shine event 2007 identified this as the main community concern and focus of their suggestions on ways to improve the neighbourhood.”
(http://www.lucas-associates.co.nz/christchurch-banks-peninsula/shirley-concept-plan/) 101 Pages, with Skate Park facilities included.

In 2017:
– “Skate Park – Papanui. The purpose of this report is for the Papanui-Innes Community Board to be informed around the possibility of a new skate park in the Papanui Ward area.”
(https://christchurch.infocouncil.biz/Open/2017/11/PICB_20171110_AGN_2042_AT.htm#PDF2_ReportName_15502)
– “Christchurch Skate Park Overview Map, August 2017”
(https://christchurch.infocouncil.biz/Open/2017/11/PICB_20171110_AGN_2042_AT.htm#PDF3_Attachment_15502_1)
– “Papanui skate park sites identified, but could be years before built. Sites in the Papanui Ward have been identified for a skate park but it could be up to 12 years before anyone gets to use it.
City council staff narrowed the search for the suitable location for a park to Bridgewater Drainage Reserve, Craighead Reserve and Edgar Macintosh Park in Papanui or Owen Mitchell Park and Redwood Park in Redwood.
The Papanui-Innes Community Board is pitching the proposal for inclusion into the city council’s 2019-29 Long Term Plan. The report said Owen Mitchell Park on Grimseys Rd is the most suitable.”
(https://www.star.kiwi/2017/11/papanui-skate-park-sites-identified-years-built/)
– “Community leaders are pushing for more facilities for young people in the Christchurch suburb of Papanui.
Christchurch City Council’s Papanui ward councillor, Mike Davidson, said the skate park project came from a meeting with a group of young people from Te Ora Hou Ōtautahi, a community youth development agency based in Papanui.
‘Both Papanui and Redwood are missing a good outdoor youth recreational facility and potentially we may need to look at two facilities in the Papanui ward.'”
(https://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/98835071/community-leaders-push-for-skate-park-in-christchurch-suburb)

In 2018:
– “Shannon’s question was ‘Do you want a Scooter, Skate and Bike Park for Shirley? We want to ask the Christchurch City Council if we can put one in at MacFarlane Park.'”
“6.11 [Option 1 Shirley Community Reserve, 10 Shirley Road, Richmond] The location of the pump track allows space for a potential community centre rebuild onsite.”
(“If the base is 209m2, and the modular design needs a 40m separation from residents houses, there won’t be room for both the pump track and the new community centre to be built on this site at 10 Shirley Road, Richmond.
The modular pump track would then have to be moved out of Richmond to another suburb in the Papanui Ward, as there are no other suitable parks (due to size/restrictions) in Shirley or Richmond.” [Joanna Gould])
“6.16.1 Skateboarding, inline skating, and BMX cycling strategy 2004 (https://www.ccc.govt.nz/assets/Documents/The-Council/Plans-Strategies-Policies-Bylaws/Strategies/SkateboardingStrategy-docs.pdf)
The strategy mentions that demand was likely to be greatest in a few suburbs in Christchurch including Richmond-Shirley and that the construction of St Albans Skate facility has met much of the need.”
“6.7 [Option 1 Shirley Community Reserve, 10 Shirley Road, Richmond] There is no toilet on site.”
“7.2 There is a flying fox, toilet and the Shirley Community Garden located near Jebson Street.”
“7.9 Note: A location near Jebson Street beside the flying fox, toilets and Shirley Community Gardens was also considered, however, this has a separation of 25m between residents and the pump track. Further noise information would be required if this site was preferred over the site near Emmett Street.”
(“If the path around the flying fox was made into a permanent pump track similar to the Gap Filler project #detour in Manchester Street, the design wouldn’t have the same noise problems/required setback from residents houses, that the proposed modular pump track design has due to the joins in the pump track.” Joanna Gould)
“8.11 There is a risk that if the Community Board decide to do nothing that the [Shirley] community will continue to demand this type of facility.”
(https://christchurch.infocouncil.biz/Open/2018/12/PICB_20181207_AGN_2446_AT.htm)
– “Shannon said he has ridden on temporary tracks in the past and “it wasn’t smooth and wasn’t that nice to ride on.”
(https://www.yumpu.com/en/document/read/62281827/norwest-news-december-18-2018, Page 11)

In 2019:
– “School kids take lead in St Albans skate park upgrade. Creative local school children are carving out a welcome role in Christchurch City Council’s skate park revamp plans.
A group of 16 children from St Albans School presented their design ideas for a planned extension to the St Albans skate park to Council staff members who were invited to attend a meeting at the school.
St Albans School Teacher Niamh O’Connor says the kids are motivated and enjoying being part of a real-life design project.
‘The whole process is a fantastic opportunity for them. They’ve experienced how the Council consults with the public and to allow our student leaders to have a voice in the community is quite empowering.’
The Council hopes another local school will be keen to get involved and contribute ideas for Bishopdale Park’s skate area which is nearing the end of its lifespan. The skate area, which is part of Bishopdale Park, off Harewood Rd, is due for a full renewal.”
(https://www.ccc.govt.nz/news-and-events/newsline/show/3589)
– Christchurch City Council, Agenda, Thursday 28 March 2019
2018/19 Capital Endowment Fund Applications: Living Springs, Shirley Pump Track, Botanic Delights
(https://christchurch.infocouncil.biz/Open/2019/03/CNCL_20190328_AGN_3367_AT.htm#PDF2_ReportName_22966)
Capital Endowment Fund Decision Matrix – Shirley Pump Track
(https://christchurch.infocouncil.biz/Open/2019/03/CNCL_20190328_AGN_3367_AT.htm#PDF3_Attachment_22966_2)
– “As a community we need to ask ourselves whether we want temporary facilities as part of our children’s childhood memories? Or whether we should be investing in building permanent facilities?
Facilities that enliven our community, and rise up a sense of identity and well-being through the memories created, when our children connect with our community spaces.” [Joanna Gould]
(https://www.10shirleyroad.org.nz/proposed-pump-track-for-shirley/)

Shirley Centre Q & A

Below are some of the commonly asked questions I’ve been asked over the last year:

Q. Is the 10 Shirley Road site the best place for a community centre?
Yes. The new Shirley centre needs to be on Shirley Road. Our Shirley Library needs to be on Shirley Road.
This is part of our identity as a community. This location has had an “educational” facility here since 1915.
This location is opposite our biggest primary school, Shirley Primary. Kidsfirst Kindergartens MacFarlane Park is to the north, with Kidsfirst Kindergartens Richmond to the south, and Kidsfirst Kindergartens Shirley to the east.
Shirley Playcentre is already part of this location, and there are other preschools/centres on Shirley Road.
Plenty of Off Street Parking: Cnr Hills Road & Shirley Road Shopping Centre, pathway from car park to Slater Street, following Dudley Creek; Shirley Road; Slater Street; Chancellor Street, bridge over Dudley Creek by the Shirley Playcentre; Julius Terrace; and Stapletons Road.
Bus stops are located outside 10 Shirley Road, and across the road, by Shirley Primary School.
– Orange Line: Halswell>Addington>Christchurch Hospital>Bus Interchange>The Palms>Burwood Hospital>Queenspark
– The Orbiter: Eastgate Shopping Centre>St Martins>Barrington Mall>Westfield Riccarton>University of Canterbury>Northlands>The Palms>Eastgate Shopping Centre
– 100 Wigram/The Palms via Riccarton: Halswell>Wigram>Church Corner>University of Canterbury>Westfield Riccarton>Merivale Mall>The Palms (www.10shirleyroad.org.nz/where/).
More Housing NZ developments are being built in Shirley/Richmond. Private/Commercial property developers are building more “higher density” housing in Shirley/Richmond.

Q. Why do we need another community centre?
We don’t. The old school ‘community centre’ model is out dated. The ‘community centre’ model is a ‘one size fits all’ centre. They cater for a specific group of people with targeted activities. They can appear ‘closed’, as they only look ‘open’ when activities are on. They can be intimidating for newcomers. Open hours, activity choices, faith based, personality differences can lead to residents feeling judged/excluded.
Libraries with learning spaces are the new ‘community centre’ model (www.10shirleyroad.org.nz/this-is-what-a-librarian-looks-like/).
“Public places on neutral ground where people can gather and interact. In contrast to first places (home) and second places (work), third places allow people to put aside their concerns and simply enjoy the company and conversation around them.” “third places are the heart of a community’s social vitality. Providing the foundation for a functioning democracy, these spaces promote social equity by leveling the status of guests, providing a setting for grassroots politics, creating habits of public association, and offering psychological support to individuals and communities.”
Ray Oldenburg (www.pps.org/article/roldenburg)
As part of my feedback on the Draft OARC Regeneration Plan, I created this “Community Needs” post (www.riseuprichmond.nz/draft-oarc-regeneration-plan-community-needs/) which includes:
Why are Identity, Well-being, & Learning important?; How can we “Get Creative Christchurch”?; Shirley Research by Joanna Gould; Richmond Research by Joanna Gould; Dallington Research by Joanna Gould; Social Isolation And Older People In Canterbury; An Inventory of Community-led and Non-governmental Organisations and Initiatives in Post-earthquake Canterbury (to September 2013); Community Needs Profile For East Christchurch for Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor Regeneration Plan.
My “Community Needs: Community Centres” post (www.riseuprichmond.nz/community-needs-community-centres/) outlines my research shows the need for two community centres:
– OARC Regeneration Plan Idea for Shirley/Richmond by Joanna Gould: “Shirley/Richmond, new Community Centre at 10 Shirley Road opposite Shirley Primary School, includes Shirley Library, Learning Spaces, Service Centre, sell Shirley Library building at The Palms.”
– OARC Regeneration Plan Idea for Dallington/Burwood/Avondale by Joanna Gould: “Dallington/Burwood/Avondale, new Community Centre at 255 New Brighton Road close to All Saints Church, includes Coastal-Burwood Governance Unit more central to their residents, small Meeting/Learning spaces with kitchen, Service Centre, Volunteer Library similar to Redcliffs Village Library, sell Shirley Library building at The Palms.”
– CCC Shirley The Palms Commercial Centre (2017): https://ccc.govt.nz/assets/Documents/Culture-Community/Stats-and-facts-on-Christchurch/Community-Ward-Profiles/Commercial-Centre-Factsheets/Shirley-The-Palms.pdf

Q. Why are you suggesting we move the Shirley Library to the 10 Shirley Road site?
The Shirley Library was built in 1996 (23 years old). In 2008 it was reported “Future need for more service capability. Space required to develop service for learning services to support need in the community.”
The Land Use Recovery Plan in December 2013 “[Shirley suburb] identified as a key activity centres for business and community which aligns with the planning for new and retention of libraries in these areas.”
Does the current Shirley Library and Service Centre align with the Libraries 2025 Facilities Plan (May 2015)?
– Libraries will foster local communities’ wellbeing by providing accessible meeting places and focal points for the community, learning and leisure activities.
– Library facilities will embrace the cultural diversity of local communities.
– The Plan will reflect Council’s commitment to the Treaty of Waitangi by reflecting an understanding of and respect for the needs of the Tangata Whenua.
– Architecturally designed buildings will generate community pride and reflect the diversity of local cultures and lifestyles.
– Urban Design Protocol: The value of public buildings such as libraries is emphasised in the Urban Design Protocol (which Christchurch City Council is a signatory to): they protect the cultural identity and heritage of our towns and cities; provide creativity; and add social, environmental and cultural benefits by creating well connected, inclusive and accessible places.
– Library Facilities: Important, central meeting place and focal point in a community; Open, spacious, welcoming environment; warm place to be in winter; vital social contact for many (especially older persons); place to meet (café) and relax with children and friends or family; Outstanding location (e.g. overlooking ocean, park setting), source of community pride, for the building and the resources available; Free learning environment; provider of ‘second chance’ opportunities for adults wanting to learn; Provider of general services, e.g. photocopiers, internet, community/local information.
– Location Preferences: Near local shops/supermarket/mall/bank/medical centre/schools/playground/toy library; malls and aquatic facilities not seen as highly desirable areas for co-location or as adjacent locations; co-location with a Council service centre favoured; On bus route/near transport hubs; handy walking distance from home, easily accessed, free, plentiful car parking adjacent to library; Attractive street visibility. (www.10shirleyroad.org.nz/chch-libraries/)

Q. Why do we need Learning Spaces in a library?
“Shirley and Parklands Libraries: these do not have dedicated ‘learning’ spaces. They have spaces that are able to be used for programming and events as part of the library footprint.
– Shirley hosted 416 programmes with 9,381 participants, Parklands hosted 260 programmes with 3,800 participants.
– Aranui Library has a dedicated whānau room which is a multi-purpose space. The Library hosted 433 programmes with 5,213 participants. The Programme statistics for Sumner saw 106 sessions hosted with 2,322 participants.”
(LGOIMA request, Library Plans/Learning Space Participants, November 2018)
If “Shirley hosted 416 programmes with 9,381 participants” without dedicated ‘learning’ spaces, what opportunities could they offer the communities if they did?
I was first inspired by the open learning spaces (www.getcreativechristchurch.nz/learning-spaces/) in the new building at Shirley Primary School. Then after attending the Ministry of Awesome: ‘Coffee & Jam’ sessions at the EPIC Innovation Campus, I thought wouldn’t it be a great opportunity to invite guest speakers from all the different Government agencies, organisations, community groups, support services, community workers to come & ‘introduce’ themselves to the community, in a non-threatening way that was accessible for all, through the learning spaces at the library, so they become more than a name, approachable familiar faces to the residents of our communities.

Q. Why not just leave the 10 Shirley Road site as a park?
“The World Health Organisation’s definition of health says that it is ‘more than the absence of disease’; it is ‘a state of complete physical, social and mental wellbeing’.”
(www.getcreativechristchurch.nz/well-being/)
In focusing so much on our physical health, we have been neglecting our ‘social and mental wellbeing’.
We already have enough parks in this area with: St Albans Park to the west, Westminster Park to the north-west, MacFarlane Park to the north, Burwood Park to the east, Richmond Park to the south-east, Petrie Park to the south.

Q. What is one word to describe your idea, that represents your “why” this centre is needed?
Inclusive. “The definition of inclusive is something that does not leave any part or group out.”
Libraries are inclusive by design. Every age/stage/race/religion/beliefs/values is catered for, within the words of the books, and the information you find online.
Anyone can go into a library, find a book that they can identity with: who they are, their beliefs, their values & their circumstances in life.
Libraries are not just for books, they empower people. You don’t have to wait on a waiting list for help. You can help yourself by asking a librarian for guidance to find the book/information you need. Librarians show us that it’s ok to ask for help, it’s ok to ask questions there. They are a safe place to teach children social skills. And for some they are a second opportunity for education.

Proposed Pump Track for Shirley

“Temporary Pump Track Consultation To Get Under Way”
“Consultation around a proposed temporary pump track on Shirley Road can go ahead now funding has been approved for the project. Earlier this month, the Christchurch City Council approved $87,850 [http://councillive.ccc.govt.nz/video/8314] for the creation of the relocatable track. The Waipapa/Papanui Innes Community Board at the end of last year, was approached by local boy Shannon Smith, who organised a petition in support of a bike or skate park.”

I do support Shannon’s request for a permanent pump track to be located within MacFarlane Park, which is why I got involved and emailed the Papanui-Innes Community Board, after seeing the article (“Temporary pump track not good enough – Shirley pupil”: A Shirley Primary School pupil says the push to install a temporary pump track is not the option he wants) in the Nor’West News [Page 11]. (see Timeline below, 18th December 2018)

Based on my local knowledge, I sent an email to the Papanui-Innes Community Board:
– to outline my observations regarding the proposed location, and
– providing two different permanent options for a track located in MacFarlane Park,
which would integrate this new facility into areas already well used by the children/families of Shirley. (see Timeline below, 21st February 2019)
Local children naturally go to the Jebson Street part of MacFarlane Park (Option 1: Flying Fox, Shirley Community Garden, Toilets & Seating), or to the Acheson Avenue end of MacFarlane Park (Option 2: Playground, Basketball Court, MacFarlane Park Centre, Dairy, Toilets & Seating).
I am currently researching permanent pump track options, based on the Gap Filler pump track project #detour (corner of Manchester and Gloucester streets.)

I do not support the proposed temporary modular pump track being purchased/installed on 10 Shirley Road.
– The 10 Shirley Road site in Richmond was chosen, as there are no suitable locations in Shirley, that have the required 40m setback from residents, due to the noise levels associated with the modular pump track design/construction. Due to these restrictions it cannot be installed in MacFarlane Park.
– Local children in Shirley know there is an “invisible boundary line”, they are free to play unsupervised, as long as they don’t cross the major roads and stay within MacFarlane Park.
– The proposed pump track will be mainly used after school and on the weekends, when the crossing lights (red light runners) from Shirley Primary to 10 Shirley Road, will not be supervised by a teacher.
– The proposed modular pump track “Quadragon”, is the next size up from the “Speed Ring” modular pump track in Burwood (corner of New Brighton Road and Brooker Ave).
– What is the expected life of this temporary modular pump track design? As the Burwood track is already showing signs of wear & tear (installed June 2018).
– What is the cost of the base required for the proposed pump track, to be installed at the 10 Shirley Road location? The Burwood track has a concrete base with gravel top coat, is this included in the $87,850 price?
– Residents are awaiting the “Richmond Community Needs Analysis” report by Sarah Wylie & “Shirley Community Centre Feasibility Study” by Peter Burley. When a decision is made to build a new community centre on the 10 Shirley Road site, this temporary modular pump track will need to be relocated to a new site, but due to its restrictions where?

As a community we need to ask ourselves whether we want temporary facilities as part of our children’s childhood memories?
Or whether we should be investing in building permanent facilities? Facilities that enliven our community, and rise up a sense of identity and well-being through the memories created, when our children connect with our community spaces.

Timeline:
– 24th August 2018
Shannon Smith created/presented his petition to the Papanui-Innes Community Board.
“Do you want a scooter, skate and bike park for Shirley? We want to ask the Christchurch City Council if we can put one in MacFarlane Park.”
“That the Waipapa/Papanui-Innes Community Board refers the petition to the appropriate staff and requests a report with options on the funding and installation of a pump track in Shirley.”
Emma Norrish/Pauline Cotter, Carried
(https://christchurch.infocouncil.biz/Open/2018/08/PICB_20180824_MIN_2439_WEB.htm)

– 7th December 2018
Megan Carpenter, Parks Recreation Planner, presented her report to the Papanui-Innes Community Board.
3. Staff Recommendations
That the Waipapa/Papanui-Innes Community Board:
1. Receive this information.
2. Support a 2021–2031 Long Term Plan bid for a modular pump track at Shirley Community Reserve.
(https://christchurch.infocouncil.biz/Open/2018/12/PICB_20181207_AGN_2446_AT_WEB.htm)

– 18th December 2018
After the decision from the Papanui-Innes Community Board regarding Shannon’s petition, Nor’West News published this article.
“Temporary pump track not good enough – Shirley pupil: A Shirley Primary School pupil says the push to install a temporary pump track is not the option he wants.”
“Shannon said he has ridden on temporary tracks in the past and “it wasn’t smooth and wasn’t that nice to ride on.”
(https://www.yumpu.com/en/document/read/62281827/norwest-news-december-18-2018, Page 11)

– 25th January 2019
3. Confirmation of Previous Minutes (7th December 2018)
8. Modular Pump Track Shirley
Staff Recommendations
That the Waipapa/Papanui-Innes Community Board:
1. Receive this information.
2. Support a 2021–2031 Long Term Plan bid for a modular pump track at Shirley Community Reserve.
Community Board Resolved PICB/2018/00129
Part C
That the Waipapa/Papanui-Innes Community Board:
1. Receive this information.
2. Support a modular pump track at 10 Shirley Road (the Shirley Community Reserve) and request that the Parks Team explore alternative funding to action the project within the financial year.
3. Request a landscape plan.
4. That the Board engage with the local education facilities, residents and community groups to encourage involvement and fund raising.
Jo Byrne/Emma Norrish, Carried
(https://christchurch.infocouncil.biz/Open/2019/01/PICB_20190125_AGN_3508_AT_WEB.htm)

– 21st February 2019
Emailed Christine Lane, Papanui-Innes Community Board.
“As a resident of Shirley for 8 years and Richmond for 2 years,
I do not agree with the proposed installation of a temporary Modular Pump Track at 10 Shirley Road, Shirley.
I do agree with Shannon’s request for a permanent pump track.
I do agree with Shannon’s request for the track to be located on MacFarlane Park.”
In the email I included my observations & two options for a “Permanent Pump Track on MacFarlane Park”. “Could you please forward this email to the Papanui-Innes Community Board members & advise a suitable time for me to make a deputation?”

– 22nd February 2019
Email received from Christine Lane, Papanui-Innes Community Board.
“Thanks for your email. I will get this to Papanui-Innes Board members today.” I didn’t receive a deputation time to talk to the Papanui-Innes Community Board as requested in my email.

– 13th March 2019
Email received from Lyssa Aves, Governance Support Officer, Papanui-Innes Community Board.
“Thank you for your letter regarding the above. Please find attached a response following the Board’s receipt and discussion of your letter at their meeting on Friday 8 March 2018.”
“Thank you for your letter of 21 February 2019 regarding your thoughts on the proposal to place a temporary modular pump track on the 10 Shirley Road site which was tabled at the Board meeting on Friday 8 March 2019.
The Board received your letter and discussed the options you presented and agreed on the following resolution:
7.2 Modular Pump Track – 10 Shirley Road site
Community Board Resolved PICB/2019/00001
The Board received the tabled correspondence from Joanna Gould regarding the Modular Pump Track proposed for the 10 Shirley Road site.
Following discussion the Board decided to request that staff provide information on the process regarding a permanent versus a temporary structure and whether there would be a need for consultation pending the result of the funding application.
Ali Jones/Jo Byrne, Carried
Community Board staff will advise you of any further outcomes.”

– 22nd March 2019
3. Confirmation of Previous Minutes (8th March 2019)
7.2 Modular Pump Track – 10 Shirley Road site
Community Board Resolved PICB/2019/00022
The Board received the tabled correspondence from Joanna Gould regarding the Modular Pump Track proposed for the 10 Shirley Road site.
Following discussion the Board decided to request that staff provide information on the process regarding a permanent versus a temporary structure and whether there would be a need for consultation pending the result of the funding application.
Ali Jones/Jo Byrne, Carried
(https://christchurch.infocouncil.biz/Open/2019/03/PICB_20190322_AGN_3217_AT_WEB.htm)

– 27th March 2019
Email sent to Jo Daly, Council Secretary and Electoral Officer.
RE: CCC Meeting 28 March 2019, Item 20: 2018/19 Capital Endowment Fund Applications: Shirley Pump Track
Could you please forward this email to the Council members today, before they discuss this funding application at the Council meeting tomorrow (28 March 2019) morning.
I do not agree with the Staff Recommendations to:
“2. Approve a grant of $87,850 from the 2018/19 Capital Endowment Fund to the Parks Unit for a modular pump track initially located at the Shirley Community Reserve”
I am concerned the Council are being asked to approve allocating “a grant of $87,850 from the 2018/19 Capital Endowment Fund” on a facility that is:
– temporary not permanent, and
– located at 10 Shirley Road/Shirley Community Reserve not within MacFarlane Park, and
– not the type of track or location that Shannon & those that signed the petition asked for.

– 27th March 2019
Email received from Jo Daly, Council Secretary and Electoral Officer.
“Thank you for your email, it has been provided to Council members as requested.”

– 28th March 2019
Christchurch City Council, Agenda
2018/19 Capital Endowment Fund Applications: Living Springs, Shirley Pump Track, Botanic Delights
(https://christchurch.infocouncil.biz/Open/2019/03/CNCL_20190328_AGN_3367_AT.htm#PDF2_ReportName_22966)
Capital Endowment Fund Decision Matrix – Shirley Pump Track
(https://christchurch.infocouncil.biz/Open/2019/03/CNCL_20190328_AGN_3367_AT.htm#PDF3_Attachment_22966_2)
20. 2018/19 Capital Endowment Fund Applications: Living Springs, Shirley Pump Track, Botanic Delights
Council Resolved CNCL/2019/00070
2. Approve a grant of $87,850 from the 2018/19 Capital Endowment Fund to the Parks Unit for a modular pump track initially located at the Shirley Community Reserve, and.
a. require reporting to be submitted 12 months following payment or once the pump track is operational whichever comes first.
(https://christchurch.infocouncil.biz/Open/2019/03/CNCL_20190328_MIN_3367_AT.PDF)

This Is What a Librarian Looks Like

“This Is What a Librarian Looks Like”
A Celebration of Libraries, Communities, and Access to Information
By Kyle Cassidy
https://christchurch.bibliocommons.com/item/show/1001618037

“Libraries can be – and in many places are – anything their communities need them to be. The power of libraries is their willingness and ability to assess the interests, desires, and needs of their patrons as they change over time. Libraries are community centers, schools, health clinics, post offices, movie theaters, job placement centers, and infinite other things.”
Matt Krueger | Teen Services Librarian | Irondequoit Public Library

“Libraries are more important to our world than people realize. We are the ‘holders of forever’ ensuring access to our cultural heritage, while providing the free access and flow of information to anyone in the world. All you have to do is ask.”
Kyle K. Courtney | Copyright Adviser | Harvard University Library

“Libraries are centers of discovery and a safe place to go where one is encouraged and supported in finding information that is empowering and transformative.”
Jessie Nachem | Librarian | The Wright Institute Oakland Public Library

“Libraries strive to be a safe place for the maligned members of our communities. Librarians want you to be welcomed and find a second home with us.”
Amy Call | Reference and Instruction Librarian | Marygrove College

“I believe in the library as a place for a great exchange of information, discovery, and creativity. Libraries encourage open minds with open doors, open books, and open screens.”
Natasha Arce | International School Librarian | School of the Nations Macau

“Libraries are the heart of community learning.”
Samantha Marison | Student/Aspiring Librarian | University of Connecticut

“I have always thought of libraries as a refuge – as places to collaborate and learn. Libraries offer people the freedom to be themselves.”
Claire Schmieder | Adult Services Librarian | Cherry Hill Public Library

“Libraries mean that no matter what your situation, you will always have a place where you can go to find the knowledge you need to be the person you want to be.”
Natalie Dejonghe | Ebook Trainer/Grant Project Coordinator | Reaching Across Illinois Library System

“Not only do I provide books to my littlest patrons, I help their parents learn how to parent. I help them find materials on behavior, education, life development stages, and much more.”
Valerie Bogert | Youth Services Librarian | Springfield Greene County Library

“For many immigrants to this country, the library is the first place where they feel accepted.”
Alicia Long | Reference Librarian | State College of Florida

“Libraries can help stop a generational cycle of abuse, victimization, or anger. They can rehabilitate, help people grow, and change in life.”
Sam Leif | Correctional Facility Librarian | Colorado Department of Correction

“Libraries provide important services that target underrepresented communities. Without libraries, many individuals could not read, write, or use a computer. These basic services can change lives. I want people to realize that libraries are transforming every day. Libraries are pulling our communities together and strengthening them. People don’t know about so many of the services libraries provide.”
Marian Mays | Recent MSLIS Graduate | University of Kentucky

“Libraries provide a community gathering place with resources, information, entertainment, and socializing for no commercial payoff. Our payoff is a healthy, literate society.”
Sara Sunshine Holloway | Teen Services Librarian | Tacoma Public Library

“Libraries are becoming social centers where people can come for recreation or to learn.”
Mario Veyna-Reyes | Las Vegas-Clark County Library District

“Books change lives. They expose individuals to ideas that can save the world of one or the world of many. Librarians are guides to the many pathways books offer. Information is my lifeline. I do what I do to share this lifeline with those who need it most.”
Anna E. Gentry | Network Librarian | Firstline Schools

“What would we do without our elders? Grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles? They’re the libraries and archives of our lives and society. Librarians and archives, like elders, reaffirm our sense of being, our purpose, and help inform who we are and how we interact within society.” Rachel E. Winston | MSIS Candidate, VF Austin (May 2015) | VF Austin Information School

“If all the libraries in the community shut down, the community would lose more than just the ability to distribute library materials. Librarians are a hub of resources for communities and provide opportunities for people to help themselves and connect with other members of the community.” Karina Reyna | MLS Student/Knowledge River Graduate Assistant | University of Arizona Knowledge River

“Reading and learning can open the mind, but only as far as the reader or learner is willing to be opened. I can’t make anyone embrace change – I simply continue to provide the opportunities. It’s all up to you. It’s what you choose to spend your time one, and how much you choose to challenge yourself. Nowhere is this more obvious than in a prison.”
Erin Boyington | Library Technician II | Sterling Correctional Facility, Colorado Dept. of Corrections

“Libraries are more relevant today than ever. In these challenging times, early childhood education is in great demand and trained children’s librarians are being sought our in droves for their experience and expertise.”
Christopher Lassen | Library Information Supervisor/Children’s Librarian | Brooklyn Public Library

“The library is the only place anyone – poor or wealthy – can go with a question and find a real person, capable of reading between the lines, who can help find an answer. Google doesn’t work if you aren’t even sure yourself with you’re looking for.”
Megan Hodge | Teaching and Learning Librarian | Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)

“Libraries are the embodiment of lifelong learning.”
Rebecca Leonhard | Director of LAS Libraries | Leysin American School in Switzerland

“Libraries are a safe space where you can challenge your views about life.”
Scott Nicholson | Associate Professor | Syracuse University School of Information Studies

“Why libraries? Innovation, creativity, inspiration, diversity, community.”
Courtney Young | 2014 President of the American Library Association | Penn State Greater Allegheny Library