3 December 2004

Library starts at New Lynn

The 21st century is rapidly unfolding at New Lynn as construction of the new Library, Service Centre, Citizen’s Advice Bureau and Memorial Square starts on Monday.

New Lynn Councillor Derek Battersby says the project has resulted from of a huge amount of planning and working with the community to integrate the design into the existing town centre to add activity and vitality to New Lynn.

“We have finally got to the point where the library is starting. I’m sure New Lynn’s ratepayers will watch the construction with interest. The project is an exciting one - it will complement existing features such as New Lynn’s war memorial,” he says.

“The new building and public space will be a place for people to enjoy spending time. It’ll give the town centre a real heart, and promote increased activity in the town centre,” says Cr Battersby.

The contract to build the Library Project has been let to Watts and Hughes Construction Company, which built the New Lynn Community Centre. During construction, 40 parks in the Memorial Drive Carpark will be fenced off, leaving approximately 190 parks.

The $4.5 million project is part of the Auckland Regional Growth Strategy which encourages people to live, work and play locally, in quality spaces and amenities.

The Library Project is expected to be a social and cultural storehouse for New Lynn and the wider area. It will also provide access to electronic information through a computerised learning centre.

Designed by architects CraigCraigMoller, the 1,000 square metre building will more than double the size of the existing library. It will feature a large verandah and the entry will front onto Memorial Square.

Dramatic art works in bas-relief, depicting New Lynn’s history and culture, will be features of the sheltering wall along McCrae way to the south east .

Inside the library, there will be informal study areas for adults and children with views to the landscaped areas outside in the adults’ section. Subject to external funding being obtained, the library will also feature a ceramic heritage display.

Eco-building principles will be used to provide low energy consumption and the use of renewable resources.

ENDS

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