Tasman District Council Makes Strategic Land Purchase

Tasman District Council has completed the purchase of the property at 183 Queen Street in Richmond, formerly occupied by the El Taverna bar and restaurant.

The property adjoins the existing Tasman District Council main office complex. The combined properties have access from all four sides of the block which enhances their overall value. The property has become a popular walking access between Washbourn Gardens and the town centre and the purchase means that this and the car parks at the rear of the site will continue to be available.

A lease has been negotiated with an incoming tenant and the income will offset the purchase price. The purchase is a strategic move to secure the long term future of the Council’s main office in the Richmond CBD as well as an investment in the long term development of the area.

“In light of its location it was a prudent decision to purchase the property as it provides an obvious option for future growth as well as providing future economic return for the District”, said Mayor Richard Kempthorne. “Regardless of the outcome of the impending union vote in February next year this was a sensible decision.”