I am pleased to bring you two images that represent major milestones on two of the significant projects we are working on for the North Shore.

These projects will bring much-needed revitalisation of two of our major centres: Northcote town centre and Takapuna, which is a metropolitan centre. They are two of only 12 centre upgrades across the city after 70 were considered.

These long-term projects have had a significant amount of work put into them already and have received a huge amount of community feedback, engagement and support over the last decade. Both have taken important steps forward in the last few months.

Northcote, one of the most significant urban regeneration projects in New Zealand, has had a comprehensive plan take shape after many years of work with our community.  I helped drive this work with fellow board members for many years when I was a Kaipātiki Local Board member and we are supporting it through the Planning Committee now at Auckland Council.

The Northcote Town Centre Masterplan has been released; it focuses on creating new public spaces, walkable streets and lanes, eateries, shops, public spaces. All this must happen with community involvement to ensure we retain the unique character of Northcote.

New public spaces will include a sunny town square, the Awataha greenway which will link existing and new green spaces and improve water quality in the area. A large community facility and library space is also planned.

Northcote will become an even more people focused community. The upgrade will celebrate the rich diversity of our neighbourhoods while increasing the number of people living, working, and enjoying the new spaces.

Kaipātiki Local Board supports the plan, and continues to work collaboratively with Panuku on the detailed design for the community spaces.

Over in Takapuna, a temporary public space is now open and busy.

The building at 38 Hurstmere Road was demolished and will make up part of our new civic space in Takapuna. Before consultation and construction of the new community space takes place, this temporary space will provide interaction, activation and fun as we continue to work with Devonport Takapuna Local Board members and Panuku on the next stages for design and consultation.

I’ve had a lot of feedback that people are enjoying the space and are amazed at the visible change already. Now that winter is on its way the space now includes some gazebos and shelters and will continue to be activated with even more events being planned for summer.

Make sure you check out the 38 Hurstmere and I Love Takapuna facebook pages for more events and promotions in Takapuna.

Feel free to continue to contact me about local issues on Richard.hills@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz