Porirua City Council is selling one of its central city properties but not necessarily to the highest bidder.

The council is putting a call out for ideas as to what potential buyers would like to do with the building at 7 Serlby Place.

The one with the best idea, not necessarily the most money, will be given the opportunity to submit a proposal.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for someone to come into the heart of one of the most up-and-coming cities in New Zealand to create something truly unique,” Porirua City Mayor, Mike Tana, says.

“Whether it’s a mountain biking cafe, an eco apartment block, a cooking school, a boutique hotel or something completely different; we’re open to anything and can’t wait to see people’s creativity.”

From today, people can go online, register their interest in a site visit and download an expression of interest form. They can also learn more about the building, which features:

Total gross floor area is 570m2
The option to build up to 20m high
A prime position on a pedestrian-only space
The option to renovate or rebuild
Residential incentives
$295k Capital Value

“It’s important for ratepayers that we get a good price for the building, but it’s also important for them that the new owner does something exciting with the property,” Tana says.

“Porirua is a fast-growing city with a very exciting future, and this project demonstrates the forward-thinking and positive attitude towards development in the city at the moment.” Expressions of interest are open until 14th of May 2018. After submissions close, the Council will shortlist the strongest and invite the submitters to put an offer on the building.

“We’re confident this approach will deliver the absolute best value for the city and our ratepayers,” Tana says.

“Taking this approach ensures we not only receive a fair value for the building today, but that we also grow the value of the city centre for the whole of Porirua into the future.

“Ratepayers win in the short term with a better city to live in, and they win in the long term with a stronger economy.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media