MEDIA RELEASE

2 April 2004 Board walk for Kohimarama’s new beach

The Recreation and Events Committee yesterday endorsed plans to upgrade the area between Tamaki Drive and Kohimarama Beach. The project focuses on protecting the natural environment and enhancing user safety and accessibility in the beachfront area.

This project would coincide with the city’s $6 million sand replenishment project currently underway to restore Kohimarama Beach and protect Tamaki Drive from coastal erosion. This is due for completion in late September 2004 and the beachfront improvement project could be completed at the same time to minimise any inconvenience.

Concept plans for the beachfront improvements show feature paving, a timber pedestrian boardwalk, and new furniture including a drinking fountain and shower. The existing pohutukawa trees will be complemented by low shrub plantings to provide protection for the pohutukawa tree roots. Enhanced lighting, railings and signage are also proposed to improve access in the area.

The beachfront improvement and seawall protection projects are both part of a larger vision for protecting and celebrating the natural, historic and cultural areas of Tamaki Drive.

Local East and Bays Councillor Douglas Armstrong says this work is long overdue.

“New sand is being pumped onto the beach to protect the seawall and now we need to turn our attention to preventing the wear and tear caused by both people and the harsh coastal environment,“ says Mr Armstrong.

“The natural environment on the beachfront is a significant heritage asset for Auckland city, and we need to ensure that the pohutukawa are protected and that people can easily access and enjoy this revitalised area without ruining it for the future,” he says.

A public open day will take place in April at the Kohimarama Yacht Club where people can view and comment on the concept plan. Council officers will be on hand to answer any questions.

Kohimarama Beachfront Improvement Open Day Date: Saturday 17 April 2004 Time: 11am to 2pm Where: Kohimarama Yacht Club.

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