Council excited about unveiling town centre plans

Ruapehu District Council is expecting a lot of interest in the launch of the concept plans for the Taumarunui Town Centre on Monday 5 December.

The Town Centre Project involves the redevelopment of the top end of Manuaute St and the area along Hakiaha St from the old library through to the town clock.

Ruapehu Mayor Don Cameron said that the high levels of interest shown by the community in having input into the plan development process had Council anticipating a good turnout at the launch.

“Taumarunui locals have been closely involved with this project all the way through,” said Mayor Cameron.

“This has involved public meetings and focus group sessions between community stakeholders and Bespoke Landscape Architects the urban designers selected to provide the detailed concept plans for the redevelopment,” he said.

“The focus group meetings allowed Bespoke to develop a deeper understanding of the town and what people think and feel about the development spaces.”

“It was evident from the public input that the community is ready for something iconic and memorable in the town centre,” said Mayor Cameron.

“Taumarunui wants something to entice travellers to stop and for locals to be proud of. A town centre space that celebrates Taumarunui's history but also its aspirations for the future being both modern and a reflection of our landscape.”

“At the launch on 5 December Bespoke will be on hand to talk about the concept plans and answer any questions.”

Mayor Cameron said Council now wants to know what people think.
“Taumarunui residents should see this as the first part of a journey of townshiprevitalization,” he said.

“Putting Taumarunui and our other townships on a path to growth and prosperity will take ideas, energy and passion from the people who will benefit the most, our local communities.”

“The Launch takes place on Monday 5 December in a shop at 81 Hakiaha St opposite the old library in-between PaperPlus and the ANZ.”

The display will then be open from 3.00pm to 6.00pm every day from the 6th to 9thDecember and from 10.00am to 1.00pm on the 10th which is the day of the Christmas Parade.”

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