The revitalisation of Takapuna hit a significant milestone last month, with our decision to approve the layout of a large public town square and finally link one of the best urban beaches in the world to our town centre. This secures the first multi-million-dollar upgrade to Takapuna since before I was born.
Both Chris Darby and I supported the civic space layout that was driven by the direction of the community consultation; it was clear through the submissions and the Colmar Brunton poll that local residents supported the development, with almost two thirds saying yes.
The design layout chosen was supported by evidence from an independent design panel and the direction of the consultation. Around 47% wanted a civic space that stretched from Hurstmere Green to Lake Road, yet only 8% favoured the other option, which was a civic space in the centre of the current carpark site. The final layout actually incorporates both designs, as there is now a large connection to Potters Park as well.
The approved layout also has support from the local business community. It will connect the business together, while connecting everyone to the beach and brings new residents and customers into the area.
The Sunday market would have had to move during construction of either space and will be able to come back after construction. There will be plenty of rooms for stalls and overflow into Hurstmere Road and Green; it may be that there are fewer vehicles on site now as it will be a permanent public park.
The $40m+ investment is long overdue with a new multi-level carpark, new 3,200sq metre civic space, bus interchange, and upgrades to Huron St and Northcroft St, plus a $12m upgrade coming to Hurstmere Road.
The temporary space at 38 Hurstmere Road represents just 15% of the future public space and gives a glimpse of what this space can offer. The recent compliments project has been a breath of fresh positivity, while the various activities such as the “Winter Lights” and the “Bear Hunts” have brought new groups in to use the space.
It’s easy to imagine all the possibilities that will come with the new space for the market, new cafés and restaurants spilling across the space, new events, community groups, and a dedicated area for ceremonies.
It hasn’t been an easy process and we have dealt with a lot of abuse and even death threats at times. If the consultation opposed the project I too would have supported that view and the investment would have been lost to another centre in Auckland. I voted with the community based on the consultation and with the evidence presented for the best use of the space.
I’m pleased to move forward with the community and deliver the upgrade so many have asked for repeatedly – bringing people into the centre, with more people living in the area, and linking the businesses and parks together.
The long awaited upgrade to Hurstmere Road will further this transformation, with new spaces for people and 100% filtration of stormwater before it reaches Takapuna beach.
The new public transport hub will provide a link right to the market square; and less than 200m away the multi-level gasometer carpark will accommodate 420 cars.
The final design will be refined over the coming months with the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board and consultation with community.
