Baldwin Street, nestled in the charming city of Dunedin, New Zealand, has once again been officially recognized as the world’s steepest street. This exciting reinstatement comes after a thorough review process, reaffirming Baldwin Street’s place in record books and as a must-see attraction for visitors to Dunedin. For over a decade, Baldwin Street proudly held this title before a brief period where the title was awarded to Ffordd Pen Llech in Harlech, Wales, in June 2019. However, the latest decision from Guinness World Records confirms Baldwin Street’s superior incline.
The Steepest Street Saga: A Tale of Two Records
The journey to reclaim the title of world’s steepest street involved a detailed appeal by representatives of Baldwin Street. This appeal, spearheaded by Toby Stoff, included a comprehensive comparative survey analyzing the three-dimensional forms of both Baldwin Street and Ffordd Pen Llech. The core of the appeal focused on the methodology used to measure steepness, highlighting the importance of considering the shape of the streets, whether straight or curved, in the assessment.
The findings of this survey proved crucial. It was determined that to accurately compare streets with differing shapes, the steepness measurement must be taken from the central axis, effectively the center line of the road. This refined approach to measurement became the deciding factor in Baldwin Street’s triumphant return to the top spot.
Measurement Matters: The Science Behind Steepness
Following the appeal and in-depth review, Guinness World Records consulted with industry specialists to ensure the most accurate and fair method for determining the steepest street (road). The conclusion was definitive: measuring the gradient from the centreline of the street is the best practice for this record title. Consequently, Guinness World Records has updated its guidelines, stipulating that measurements from any other axis will no longer be considered for the title of world’s steepest street.
This revised methodology led to the recalculation of the gradients. The new results definitively showed Baldwin Street with a steeper gradient of 34.8%, surpassing Ffordd Pen Llech’s gradient of 28.6%. Furthermore, the updated guidelines now permit measurements provided by local, national, or international measurement professionals, ensuring greater accessibility and accuracy in future record attempts. Clarity was also added to the definition of a “thoroughfare” for record purposes, confirming that streets connecting to other roads are indeed eligible, as they serve as destinations themselves.
Expert Insights: Quotes from Key Figures
Toby Stoff, who led the Baldwin Street appeal, expressed gratitude towards Guinness World Records, stating: “Sincere thanks to Guinness World Records for considering our findings. It is important to know that Guinness World Records treats matters like this in a robust and professional manner. The issue of gradient was technical in nature only. There was no bad feeling toward the people of Harlech. I had the great joy of visiting last November. It is a wonderful heritage town full of friendly people.”
Craig Glenday, Editor-in-Chief at Guinness World Records, commented on the decision and the meticulous nature of record verification: “Each one of the 60,000+ records we monitor have a set of rules unique to them which specify, among other things, the evidence that must be provided in order for us to verify a world record claim. As well as calling upon in-house expertise, we also work in collaboration with dozens of consultants, universities, federations and governing bodies across a number of subject matters to ensure that our rules are as up-to-date and as relevant as possible. We’re very grateful to the Baldwin Street appeals team, led by surveyor Toby Stoff, for making us aware of a rare gap in our stipulations and we’re pleased to see the title return to New Zealand. We’re also very grateful to the Ffordd Pen Llech team for their application and good humour throughout this process.”
Baldwin Street: A Dunedin Icon Reinstated
With the record officially reinstated, Baldwin Street proudly reclaims its title as the world’s steepest street dunedin, solidifying its status as a unique and celebrated landmark in Dunedin, New Zealand. This decision is a testament to the street’s remarkable incline and the rigorous standards of Guinness World Records in ensuring accuracy and fairness in record-keeping. For visitors and locals alike, Baldwin Street remains an iconic destination, inviting challenges and admiration for its extraordinary steepness.
