Shirley Road Pedestrian Safety Improvements
About the project
Shirley Road Pedestrian Safety and Accessibility Improvements
We are planning pedestrian safety and accessibility improvements on Shirley Road in Papatoetoe to make it safer and easier for people in the community to cross the road. Shirley Road is a busy route, and we have heard from residents that crossing can feel difficult and unsafe, particularly near Omana Park and along key walking routes to the town centre and train station.
These improvements aim to support safer walking for everyone, including families, older adults, and people with mobility needs, while improving connections to local parks, shops, and public transport.
We invite the community to share their feedback on the proposed changes.
Why are changes being proposed?
There are currently limited safe and accessible crossing opportunities along this section of Shirley Road:
- Near 281 Shirley Road, there is no formal crossing point between Omana Park and Papatoetoe Town Centre. Many people already cross here, including families and residents using Richards Avenue as a popular walking route.
- Near 127 Shirley Road, the existing pedestrian refuge provides some support but does not meet current accessibility standards and can be challenging for some users.
Without safe and accessible crossings, people are required to find gaps in traffic on a busy road, which can feel unsafe. These projects aim to provide safer, more comfortable places to cross and improve access to key community destinations, including Papatoetoe Train Station.
What we’re planning to do before June 2026
Location 1: Near Omana Park (281 Shirley Road)
- Install a new pedestrian refuge island for a safe crossing point between Omana Park and Papatoetoe Town Centre via Richards Avenue.
- Remove 3 parking spaces outside 260 Shirley Road and Omana Park, plus 2 spaces outside 281 Shirley Road to improve visibility.
Location 2: Near Papatoetoe Train Station (127 Shirley Road)
- Widen and upgrade the existing pedestrian refuge crossing to improve safety and accessibility.
- Remove 1 parking space on the southern side for clear visibility.
How this will benefit your neighbourhood
- Provide safer and more comfortable places to cross Shirley Road, including a new crossing near Omana Park and an upgraded crossing near Papatoetoe Train Station.
- Make it easier for families, residents, park users, and commuters to move between Omana Park, Shirley Road, Papatoetoe Town Centre, and the train station.
- Give people more space to wait safely in the middle of the road, making crossings feel less rushed and more accessible.
- Crossing will be easier and more comfortable for parents with prams, people using mobility aids and anyone who needs a bit of extra space or time
- Support popular walking routes, including Richards Avenue, and encourage safe everyday walking trips to local destinations.
We want your feedback
Share your thoughts up until Friday, 6 February 2026
You can share your thoughts by filling in the survey below. Or email us at engagementfeedback@johnstaff.co.nz with “Shirley Road” in the subject line.
