‘Don’t stand in front of bulldozers’, pleads local councillor
Orakei Councillor Cameron Brewer is pleading to outraged St Heliers residents not to stand in front of the bulldozers
that are set to demolish the Turua Street art deco houses and face possible police arrest.
“The residents have fought a valiant fight and I was pleased to support them. However Tuesday’s urgent meeting with the
developer marked the end of road. I encourage people to now focus on saving other local heritage buildings by ensuring
they have adequate legal protection, so this doesn’t happen again,” says Cameron Brewer.
“Standing up to the bulldozers makes a good point but it’s not going to save the houses. It would be sad if the police
were forced to become involved. I’m also perturbed to hear some say they will boycott the businesses in the new
development.
“We’ve got to now focus on the future and work to get the best out of the new development. It’s abundantly clear now
that St Heliers’ values its heritage and future plans have to reflect that. The new council also has to develop
processes and policies that enable greater engagement with local communities,” says Cameron Brewer.
Mr Brewer says as an independent councillor he is pleased to have been able to reflect the community’s strong view on
Turua Street. He found the Save Turua Street group a free planning lawyer, fronted up to the large public meeting,
sought council advice, involved the Mayor’s Office and the Council Chair of Heritage, and organised the last ditch
meeting with the developer’s team yesterday.
ENDS