Overview

Background

During a period of transformative urban development in Dunedin, Andy Wilson played a important role in steering transport planning early initiatives to accommodate and complement major city projects. These projects included the comprehensive redevelopment of the Dunedin Hospital, the George Street Renewal, and enhancements to connections with the waterfront. Each initiative required a reevaluation of the city's transport infrastructure, notably reconsidering the role of one-way pairs, to support a future-focused Dunedin. This era marked a significant shift towards creating a more connected, accessible, and vibrant city center.

Objective

His primary focus was on the application of the Network Operating Framework (NOF), a strategic tool used to manage transport networks by defining the function and performance requirements of different parts of the network.

Role

Within the Dunedin City Council, Andy's responsibilities were integral to redefining the urban transport framework to align with the city's development aspirations.

• Network Operating Plans (NOPs): Andy was deeply involved in developing NOPs, which are detailed plans derived from the NOF that specify the operational objectives for different segments of the transport network. These plans consider various modes of transport and their interactions, aiming to optimize the efficiency and safety of the network.

• Movement and Place Framework: A key aspect of Andy's role was integrating the Movement and Place approach into transport planning. This approach balances the need for transport corridors to facilitate movement with their role as places that support social and economic activities. By applying this methodology, Andy contributed to creating spaces that catered to both mobility and community needs.

In executing his role at Dunedin City Council, Andy Wilson utilized a comprehensive set of skills and capabilities that were instrumental in advancing the city’s transport planning and urban development projects. Here’s a detailed look at these skills:

• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Proficiency: Andy’s adept use of GIS, particularly QGIS, played a pivotal role in spatial analysis and visualization of transport data. This skill enabled the mapping of urban transport networks and the analysis of spatial data to support planning decisions.
• Advanced Excel Skills: His proficiency in Excel was essential for data analysis, financial modeling, and the development of transport models. Andy’s ability to manipulate large datasets and perform complex calculations in Excel facilitated the efficient management and interpretation of transport data.
• Strategic Planning: Andy’s strategic planning skills were evident in his ability to envision and contribute to large-scale urban renewal projects such as the Dunedin Hospital Reconstruction and George Street Renewal. His planning expertise ensured that transport initiatives were aligned with broader urban development goals.
• Commissioning and Managing Surveys: Andy demonstrated capability in commissioning and managing surveys, including the design, implementation, and analysis phases. This involved working with external contractors, ensuring survey quality, and analyzing survey data to inform transport planning decisions.
• Analysis and Interpretation of Survey Data: His skills in analyzing and interpreting survey data were crucial for understanding transport patterns, identifying infrastructure needs, and evaluating the impact of proposed developments. Andy’s ability to draw meaningful insights from data informed the planning and optimization of Dunedin’s transport network.
• Development of a Modelling Governance Framework: Andy led the development of a modelling governance framework for Dunedin, showcasing his leadership in establishing best practices for transport modeling. This framework provided a structured approach to model development, validation, and application, ensuring reliability and consistency in transport planning processes.
• Proficiency with Transport Modelling Software: Andy’s expertise with transport modelling software, including CUBE for network and demand modeling and Paramics for microsimulation traffic modeling, was essential for conducting detailed transport analyses. His ability to use these tools enabled the simulation of traffic flows, assessment of infrastructure changes, and forecasting of future transport scenarios.
  

Outcomes

Andy’s strategic input and application of the Network Operating Framework and Movement and Place approach laid the groundwork for significant urban renewal projects in Dunedin. His contributions were instrumental in:

Shaping the Dunedin Hospital Reconstruction Project: Andy's work ensured that transport planning was seamlessly integrated into the hospital's redevelopment, addressing future traffic demands and enhancing access to healthcare facilities.

Informing the George Street Renewal: Through careful planning and the application of the Movement and Place concept, Andy helped form the vision for George Street’s transformation into a pedestrian-friendly, vibrant urban space that supports local businesses and improves the quality of life for residents.

Facilitating Waterfront Connectivity: His efforts contributed to enhancing connections between the city center and the waterfront, making the area more accessible and fostering a stronger relationship between Dunedin’s urban core and its coastal edge.