Inner city transformation work starts with removal of sails
Work to transform Rotorua's inner city is underway, with the removal overnight (Monday 23 November) of the two large overhead sails.
Contractors are now dismantling the old City Focus office building for removal.
The works are part of the first stage of a project to give the intersection a major makeover.
The area is to be transformed into a fresh, modern place providing more open space for pedestrians, improving traffic flow and removing the visual barriers that restrict sightlines along Tutanekai and Hinemoa streets.
The second and major stage of work is to be undertaken after Easter 2016, following the summer retail season.
Inner City Revitalisation Portfolio lead, Councillor Karen Hunt, said the council was taking the opportunity to reinvigorate a much-loved space.
This allows us to use this space in a much more dynamic way. I want to thank the community at large, and particularly the Inner city Focus Group and retail Block Champions'.
We're moving our city forward. We've now got an opportunity at this significant meeting place to create a very special space for our community.
Contractors will be working on-site up until 18 December and will keep noise and disruption to a minimum wherever possible.
However, as there will be occasions when there will be some unavoidable disruption, pedestrians and motorists are being asked to take care around City Focus and stay clear of areas where contractors are working.
Click inner city makeover for more information or to keep up-to-date.
City Focus revamp to put pedestrians at forefront:
- fifty per cent more public open space
- clearer, prioritised pedestrian routes
- design to reflect stories of Tutanekai and Hinemoa
- recognising cultural significance to Te Arawa
- shared space zones east and west
- no loss of parking spaces
- flexible spaces for relaxing and events
- mix of paved, lawn and garden surfaces
- spaces for cafes to open out on to
- safe pedestrian and through-vehicle routes