24 March 2005
Urban Suburbia Open Decks allows Glen Innes youth to speak up
Glen Innes youth are invited to bring their moves, records, words and thoughts about the proposed changes to Talbot Park
to Urban Suburbia Open Decks on Friday 1 April.
This unique event, taking place at Mayfair Place, will allow youth of the area to speak up and voice their opinion on
the look and feel of two new reserves proposed to replace the existing Talbot Park. It is an innovative way of involving
youth in community consultation, using music as a means of engagement and communication.
Hip-hop artists, including MC D Kamali with Haitian International Maya and Blaque Reign, and special guests DJ Stomin
Norman and Flashmaze Allstars B-Boys, will perform and youth are invited to rap to music in response to questions and
themes about Talbot Park.
The changes to Talbot Park are part of a community renewal project being undertaken by Housing New Zealand Corporation
with the intention of revitalising the area.
A model of the proposed redevelopment and more detailed information about the project will be on display at the Glen
Innes Library (108 Line Road) from 2 April until 15 April. People are invited to take the opportunity to visit the
library and comment on the proposed redevelopment during this time.
A vital component of the project is an agreed land exchange between Housing New Zealand Corporation and Auckland City,
which will provide two new reserves in place of the existing Talbot Park.
The relocation of the park, which is currently fenced off from many houses, is integral to the development. The two new
reserves will be designed with improved access, public safety and enjoyment in mind. The desired outcome is for the new
design to blend with the character of the local community and provide a greater base of local people to support and
sustain Glen Innes town centre.
The area is also the first application of Auckland City’s new Residential 8 higher-density zoning.
The rezoning of Talbot Park to Residential 8 will create a positive improvement to the living standards of Housing New
Zealand houses and provide more comprehensive housing to meet the increasing need in the area.
The Talbot Park redevelopment is part of the Tamaki Edge Auckland Urban Living Project which aims to manage growth and
change in the city, and create better places to live, work and play.
ENDS