WCC angst and conflict is channeling the lie

The Editor, The Dominion Post and The Weekender, Wellington

21/05/ 2021

Dear Editor:

A lot of angst and conflict has been on display within WCC and a lot said about it.  But the reason why it seems so hard to get a grip on is because the city (as much of the world) is living a lie which many are desperate to deny and which Let’s Get Wellington Moving is by its nature incapable of confronting.

Some readers and columnists have wondered why there is so much objection to a little thing like cycle ways and other paths along side road space.  The vociferousness of the objections can only be explained by a fierce denial of the implications of climate change.  Fundamental changes will be necessary, as scientists have continued to point out, and politicians have pretty much ignored; it’s easy to see how weak the adopted program for New Zealand is.  A mundane thing like car parks becomes the point of no return. 

If only the reality of the required fundamental changes was accepted, then the air would clear, mental health would improve, and council would be able to get on with the real work.  And there will be an enormous amount of work, and soon, since we have put it off for decades.

Sincerely,

Richard Keller