More green space for Hastings CBD

Hastings District Council has taken a significant step in its commitment to provide additional green space in the Central Business District.

Council has approved the purchase of a 6000 square metre block of land, bounded by St Aubyn Street, King Street and Avenue Road, from the Hastings RSA.

Mayor Lawrence Yule says “development of the land will include passive park facilities and a children’s playground occupying 4000sqm, with the balance of space dedicated to a skate facility to provide recreation opportunities for youth”.

Council is delighted to be able to secure a large site within the CBD, to give effect to the community’s green space aspirations, following the sale of Nelson Park “ said Mayor Yule.

“We have waited a while for the right opportunity to become available and now that patience has paid off.

Funding for the purchase of the property comes from the council’s $3m greenspace fund while 275 thousand dollars was allocated for the construction of the skate facility in the 2010-2011 Annual Plan.

Mr Yule says “council had included the provision of a skate facility in its annual plan in 2008 and while other sites have been assessed, this site proved to be the most suitable”

Hastings RSA CEO Neil Murphy says “it’s a great outcome for both parties and the RSA is delighted that the land will be developed to provide park facilities which will become a valuable asset for all residents.

Development of the skate facility will be undertaken in consultation with users, to ensure it is compelling for the youth of Hastings. Input will also be sought from the community on the design of the passive park.

This is the second CBD greenspace project in Council’s programme, following on from the Warren Street pocket park, which is currently being developed.