After vigorous debate Hutt City Council has included $332,000 in its 2001/02 Annual Plan towards a programme to revitalise Jackson Street in Petone.

The money will used for general improvements to the main street, including installing more pedestrian crossings, widening the footpath to accommodate outdoor tables and chairs, tree plantings and traffic calming measures.

Hutt City chief executive Rik Hart was extremely pleased that councillors had shown their support for a project with such clear economic benefits for the whole of Hutt City. This is not a Petone vs the rest situation, but about building on Petone's strengths which benefits the whole city.

"I believe councillors have shown real vision in supporting this initiative," said Mr Hart.

"Sustainable economic development is not a fuzzy term that will magically transform Hutt City. It involves looking at the natural advantages of areas in the city and then investing sufficient money (seed funding) to kickstart further development.

"The money council has voted for this project will go some way towards creating a real café and retail atmosphere that will help draw people from within the city and from outlying areas to experience Jackson Street which, with its historical connections, is unique to the city.

"This money should not be seen as replacing money that the private sector should invest but creating the environment for additional private sector investment that will create a retail and café precinct that the whole city can enjoy," said Mr Hart.

ENDS

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