Wellington to consider car-free CBD

Wellington City Council has voted to look into plans to remove cars from the central city by 2025.

Councillors voted 11-2, with Mayor Andy Foster absent, to direct council staff to prepare a report that explores a fossil-free CBD.

The notice of motion was led by councillor Tamatha Paul, who is the climate change portfolio leader and says the heart of the capital is in desperate need of transformation.

She told a meeting on May 12 her vision for the city included pedestrianising and decarbonising it, reports the NZ Herald.

Councillor Nicola Young opposed the motion because of its timing and explained an affordable and reliable public transport system should be a priority in any push to getting people out of cars.

A report on the plans is due to be presented to councillors for consideration by the end of September 2021.