As a proud member of the Sumner, Redcliffs, Moncks Bay, and Mt Pleasant community, I have watched our beautiful coastal pathway become a cherished part of our landscape. It's a space where families stroll, cyclists commute, and residents enjoy the serene surroundings of our coastline. However, the recent proposed addition of LED artistic  lighting and visual spectacle (basically a light show) to the Coastal Pathway's Moncks Bay balustrade is a cause for concern. There are 268 upstands on the balustrade, where it is intended the multi-coloured LED lights will be inserted with each light being approximately 800mm in height. 

Te Ara Ihutai Christchurch Coastal Pathway is a scenic, 6.5-kilometer shared-use path connecting Ferrymead to Scarborough Beach in Sumner. The mostly flat, 4-meter wide paved trail is designed for walkers, cyclists, and wheelchair users, offering stunning waterfront views, birdwatching, and access to local beaches. 

The LED lights intended to give artistic lighting and a visual spectacle will most certainly disrupt the natural ambiance of our coastal walkway. They will shine maybe flash throughout the night, dusk to dawn, altering the serene atmosphere and distracting  motorists, impacting residents and the nocturnal wildlife that calls our coastline home. Studies suggest that artificial lighting can affect the behaviors, physiology, and life cycles of wildlife, particularly birds and insects. Our pathway should be a sanctuary where nature thrives, not where it is disrupted.

Whilst the pathway was designed with considerable care to protect the native penguins during construction it's difficult to understand why the same caution has been abandoned now.

Additionally, the bright LED lights contribute to light pollution, obscuring the stars and diminishing the night sky's beauty, which is part of our community's identity.

A decade ago adding more lighting may have felt progressive, today, the enlightened position is the opposite with the world reducing unnecessary lighting,  protecting dark spaces, reducing emissions and recognising the impacts of artificial lights on wildlife and people. 

There are of course ongoing cost implications including those resulting from potential vandalism. It creates an asset that requires ongoing maintenance,  inspection,  repair,  cleaning,  programming and eventual renewal. This cost will inevitably fall on the ratepayer.

The case for creating a new decorative artistic lighting asset beside a sensitive coastal environment appears weaker than ever.

The wave fence is beautiful, the project is complete.

We propose that you vote against the LED artistic lighting and visual spectacle, such measures would preserve our community's natural charm and protect the diverse ecosystem unique to our area.

Join us in requesting the immediate cessation of this unnecessary artistic lighting show. By signing this petition, you will help safeguard the Coastal Pathway, ensuring it remains a haven for both people and wildlife. Together, we can make a change that respects our environment and enhances community life.