CBD upgrade to be complete ahead of Rugby World Cup

Upgrade work on the Heretaunga Street 300 block (between King and Nelson Streets) is to be completed, ahead of the Rugby World Cup, which starts in early September.

Work begins at the King Street end of the block next week (Wednesday June 1st) and includes the replacement of underground services before new footpath paving is laid down. The work starts on the northern side of the street, going from Pumpkin Patch to Thomson’s Suits and then the process is repeated on the southern side. The final part of the project will involve the reshaping and resealing of the road surface.

New features include Hastings signature “art deco styles lights”, seats, bike racks, rubbish bins and clay paving. The upgrade is designed to make the area safer and more accessible for pedestrians and cyclists.

Access for shoppers will be maintained throughout the redevelopment, with the pavement work being undertaken between 4pm and midnight to minimise disruption to retailers. One side of the street will remain open for vehicles during the majority of the work.

Councillor Sandra Hazelhurst says” the street upgrade is an essential step in enhancing the vibrancy of the CBD. It’s just so important that the CBD looks its finest at a time when thousands of visitors are expected to flock to Hastings during the Rugby World Cup”.

“The redevelopment work will ensure our CBD remains the heart of the city and continues to be the ultimate shopping destination for residents. The project will quite literally make the area look a million dollars come Rugby World Cup time” Cr Hazelhurst says.

The upgrade is expected to be complete by early September.