More open space for Albany

North Shore City Council has secured more open space in Albany with the purchase of one of the largest pieces of privately owned land in the city.

About half of the 49ha site at 463 State Highway 17, just north of Albany, is covered in native bush including rimu, kauri and manuka, and the rest is open pasture.

Council paid $7.5m for the land, which had been for sale for about two months. It will make up part of the northern green corridor, intended to run the length of the city's northern boundary.

North Shore City Council community services and parks committee chairwoman, Margaret Miles, says this site's purchase was essential.

"The land was already in 11 lots, nine of which could be divided in two, so we had to act quickly in order to retain it as open space," she says.

"It's a great addition to our city's parks and recreation areas, and forms a link between existing parks nearby, including O'Brien Reserve, Albany Heights West and Three Streams."

In future the land could offer everything from bush walks and bridle paths to biking.

Over the next ten years the council plans to invest $109m buying land for parks across the city, and another $255m maintaining, renewing and upgrading parks and sportsfields.

"Money for the purchase of parks is not funded by rates, but by development contributions that allow us to protect land like this for future generations," says Councillor Miles.

Other park land purchases over the last two years have been at Browns Bay Beachfront Reserve, Birkenhead, Castor Bay, Takapuna beachfront and Schopolo Pl in Albany.

"People have made it clear that they want us to preserve the character of North Shore City, which for many is the opportunity to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle," says Councillor Miles.

ends

© Scoop Media