Time for talking over – time for work to begin on Queens Wharf

The Auckland Regional Council (ARC) and the Government have agreed on how Queens Wharf will be developed.

“After a long and sometimes difficult debate I am very pleased that the ARC and the Government have reached a robust and sustainable agreement on the development of Queens Wharf,” says Michael Lee, Chairman of the ARC.

“We have reached a pragmatic and creative solution that delivers an outstanding harbourside fan zone for the Rugby World Cup, embraces the wharf’s heritage and preserves the broadest possible options and legacy for the future.”

The agreement between the Government and the ARC confirms Queens Wharf as the Rugby World Cup fan zone in a plan which includes both Shed 10 and the temporary “cloud” structure.

Under the agreement Shed 11 will be dismantled and moved off site, and the “cloud” building located in its place on the western side of the wharf.

Shed 10 will be retained with some works undertaken to ensure that it is safe, secure and visually in keeping with the fan zone for next year’s Rugby World Cup. This work will respect the heritage values of the shed.

The ARC purchased Queens Wharf to provide a permanent cruise ship terminal and public open space in the heart of Auckland’s waterfront.

“This agreement means that after the Rugby World Cup the new Auckland Council and its Waterfront Development Agency will be able to make considered decisions on how to achieve these long term objectives within a vision for Auckland and the whole of the waterfront,” says Mr Lee.

Mr Lee thanked the Prime Minister, John Key and Minister for the Rugby World Cup, Murray McCully for their work to deliver this new, pragmatic and creative solution.

“Aucklanders tend to debate the development of their city so passionately that it can sometimes be bewildering and indeed exasperating – especially for the rest of the country. Once again, we have tackled a complex city development issue and forged a robust solution,” says Mr Lee.

“But the clock is ticking. The time for talking is over, now the work begins. Delivery for the Rugby World Cup can now proceed in earnest. We will be doing everything we can to help the Government produce an outstanding and memorable experience for all.”

ENDS

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