After years of community advocacy and countless requests for change, the cobblestone pavers lining the main street of Wellsford are finally being removed. The long-standing issue, which dates back to the days of the Rodney District Council and early efforts by the Ratepayers Association led by Graham Powell, is now being addressed thanks to a concerted push from local groups and timely support from the Rodney Local Board.

Community group Support Your Local Wellsford played a key role in advancing the project, submitting petitions, photos, presentations, and historical context in a series of formal submissions. Their efforts, alongside the ongoing advocacy of Wellsford Plus and feedback from residents through council complaint systems (CAS numbers), helped build a strong case for change.

The Rodney Local Board responded positively following a recent deputation, allocating funding to Auckland Transport (AT) to finally make the long-anticipated upgrade a reality. The cobblestones will be replaced with a safer, more accessible aggregate concrete surface.

Work is set to begin mid-May, starting at the corner of Cozy Caffe and Worker Road. The project will proceed in sections (see map in below documents), ending at 4 Square at the top of the main street. Subject to weather and site conditions, the works are expected to take up to eight weeks.

AT has already marked out services such as power, gas, and drainage, and a community meeting with project representatives has helped ensure a clear understanding of the process ahead.

What to expect during the upgrade:

• Parking outside businesses will be temporarily closed – visitors are encouraged to use rear parking areas.
• Temporary footpaths will be installed alongside existing ones. Please follow all signage and instructions from the traffic management team.
• Most concrete pours will happen in the evenings and overnight to minimise disruption to businesses and traffic.
• Shops will remain open throughout the works. Entry ramps and safety mats will be in place where needed.
• The look and layout of the main street will change during the works, so please take extra care and continue to support local businesses.

This long-awaited change marks a major improvement for Wellsford’s town centre. Thanks to Auckland Transport, the Rodney Local Board, and the dedication of community advocates, a safer, smoother, and more practical footpath is on the way—just in time for winter.