Auckland Council is hitting back at criticism over Queen Street upgrades

The Auckland Ratepayers' Alliance says the 12.8 million dollar project to widen footpaths and remove some car lanes, wasn't put through cost-benefit analysis.

The alliance claims the street is now best known for gridlock, homelessness and for empty shops

Auckland Council says it didn't make quantitative cost benefit analysis, but consulted widely.

It says other advantages like air quality, safety, noise reduction and the attractiveness and vibrancy of the street were identified.

The council says data shows both pedestrian and international visitors are increasing.