6 November 2015

City centre community hub consultation finds strong support

Proposals to improve Freyberg Square and the Ellen Melville Centre in Auckland’s city centre have received strong overall public support. However the recent consultation also raised some concerns that Auckland Council says need to be addressed before plans can be finalised.

The council says there was majority support for the proposals from the 337 responses received, with a range of design suggestions now being examined or incorporated. However there were some key concerns raised – particularly by local businesses – and the council will work with business association Heart of the City (HOTC) to establish whether and how these can be resolved.

The proposed pedestrianisation of Freyberg Place – to better connect the community facility with the square – received 84% support overall; however it was opposed by a majority of the businesses that responded. These concerns link to wider questions relating to the access and flow of traffic through the High Street district.

Other concerns included the need to mitigate the impacts of construction, with suggestions including smarter construction techniques, activating the surrounding area, providing temporary parklets, pop-up retail and wayfinding to support and promote local business. Others – including HOTC – called for greater clarity on the longer-term aspiration for the precinct.

Waitematā Local Board chair Shale Chambers said “More and more Aucklanders are living and working in the city centre, and this consultation shows they are excited about the potential for a much-improved community facility and public space in this area. Support for improvements to the centre was overwhelming.

“However, it’s also clear that there are concerns from businesses and these need to be worked through.”

HOTC chief executive Viv Beck said “The business community is fundamental to the success of the High Street district and it’s important that these concerns are fully understood and also take account of the wider context of this area. The High Street district is an integral part of Auckland’s city centre. It has rich history, prime location and so much potential as the city evolves and grows.

“Heart of the City believes there should be a holistic approach for this important precinct so decisions are not made in isolation. This is particularly important now that there is city centre targeted rate funding allocated to a future High Street upgrade. It will also ensure that construction can be managed as efficiently as possible to minimise disruption.”

The council and Heart of the City will work with businesses in the district on the key concerns and potential solutions.

The full feedback report will be available online at: http://www.shapeauckland.co.nz/consultations/freyberg-square-pioneer-womens-and-ellen-melville-hall/

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