PUMP TRACK & SKATE PARK

The Rosemerryn development has recently included the installation of a pump track and skate ramp facility following a request from the Lincoln Community Board and in collaboration with Selwyn District Council.

Following the construction completion in December 2022, the pump track and skate ramp has been well received by a range of users in the community, however, over the first few months following the opening of the pump track and skate ramp, Selwyn District Council received several noise related complaints from residents on adjacent streets to the reserve. These complaints related to the skate ramp only and the concerns were over the reported loud ‘drumming’ noise generated when skaters land on the skate ramp which has a hollow core.

Following receipt of the noise complaints, Selwyn District Council initiated a noise assessment to understand the noise levels associated with the skate ramp. While there are no specific noise levels in the District Plan associated with this type of facility, the assessment was undertaken based on noise levels associated with those for a residential zone. The noise assessment found the noise levels were compliant with daytime use, however, did not meet those levels acceptable for the after-hours use that was occurring. In addition the Council found that some of the noise being generated from the use of the skate ramp displayed significant special audible characteristics.

Following the noise assessment, further investigations were undertaken to test whether the noise levels could be mitigated through core filling and insulating the skate ramp, however it was deemed that these measures would not adequately mitigate the actual or perceived noise levels. As such, a decision was made to remove the skate ramp only to eliminate any noise issues going forward.

While it is very disappointing to arrive at this decision, on a positive note, the skate ramp materials will be re-purposed to the benefit of several Canterbury area skate youth groups. Following the removal of the skate ramp, this area will be formed into a planted embankment to the existing pump track and further work, including a sheltered seating area with rubbish bin and drinking fountain, will be undertaken over the next few months.

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