Vision for Auckland’s waterfront already agreed

It’s time Auckland got on with developing the waterfront, ARC Chairman Mike Lee said today.

“During the current debate around a cruise ship terminal for Queens Wharf, it has been said there must be an agreed vision for the waterfront before we can proceed with Queens Wharf.

“There seems to be a case of amnesia here because five years ago, the ARC, Auckland City Council and Ports of Auckland – along with numerous stakeholders and the general public – spent a great deal of time and effort formulating a waterfront vision.”

In 2005, 850 community, business and industry representatives responded to a call to agree on a vision for the waterfront.

The agreed vision is for a waterfront that is progressively opened up to the public, and supports the city’s economy through continued port activities and marine industries. The waterfront should also be a world-class destination that celebrates our Pacific culture and maritime history.

The plan for the waterfront identified Queens Wharf as the location for the Auckland’s primary cruise ship terminal. It also identified Wynyard Point and the 4.25 hectare headland park – already secured – as the place to construct an ‘iconic’ public building that should be emblematic of Auckland.

“After all that work, I don’t see the need to be calling for yet more plans,” said Mr Lee.

“The feedback I am getting from the public is that what Aucklanders want for the waterfront has not changed. What we need to do is get on with it. We have a golden opportunity to develop Queens Wharf as a cruise ship terminal and an attractive public space.

“People are becoming fed up with the arguing and political campaigning. They want to see action – not another vision, plan or strategy.

“Doing nothing on Queens Wharf is not an option. Sitting on our hands is not going to build a new waterfront. We just need to get on with delivering what the city needs, at a price that offers long term value for money.”

More information on the vision for Auckland’s waterfront is available at www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/waterfront

ENDS

© Scoop Media