Lower Hutt Civic Precinct Continues to Take Shape

The next stage of the Lower Hutt Civic Precinct development is about to begin with phase three of the Riddiford Garden refurbishment.

Council’s City Infrastructure General Manager Bruce Sherlock says, “Work already completed on Riddiford Garden is getting great use by the public especially the active plaza at the corner of Queens Street and Laings Road. Young people are playing basketball and using the skateable surfaces every day, and a tai chi group is often seen in the plaza.

“The new Riddiford Pavilion, which has a BBQ area, is also expected to be a hit with warmer weather hopefully on its way.

“The next phase of the redevelopment, phase three, will complete the transformation of the garden with new landscaping, seating, improved pathways and a new water feature to replace the old civic fountain. As part of the upgrade two bridges that lead from the children’s playground will be replaced and made fully accessible with picnic spots dotted throughout the garden.”

Work on phase three will begin this weekend with Council’s contractor Naylor Love setting up on site. The public will notice site fencing going up and site clearing.

During construction the rear end of the garden, at the back of Council’s building on Laings Road will be closed to the public. Signage will be put up directing the public to alternate routes.

The garden is set to be complete next year to coincide with the opening of the new Lower Hutt Events Centre and refurbished Town Hall.

“Visitors to the Events Centre will be able to step out into the garden via a connecting path and enjoy the green heart of the city, something that will set us apart from other conference facilities.

“Together with the Dowse Art Museum, War Memorial Library, Anzac Memorial Lawn and the future development of the old i-SITE building the Civic Precinct will become a destination for locals and visitors.”

ENDS

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