4 March 2005

Chance to sing out about proposed performance area for Western Park

Auckland City is asking Ponsonby residents and visitors to comment on a proposed outdoor performance space for Western Park after the Western Bays Community Board endorsed a design for public consultation late last month.

Between 4 and 28 March 2005, submissions can be made on the proposed design which seeks to offer park visitors a place to relax while enjoying performances and views of the park’s planted gullies.

As well as providing a stage for informal and impromptu performances, the area could play host to a number of the city’s existing events including Music in Parks and elements of the Ponsonby Alive, Ponsonby Fringe and Ponsonby Christmas festivals.

The $60,000 design features a circular timber performance area, linked to the existing path network via asphalt paving, and uses the natural landform of the area by converting the surrounding hillside into a grassed amphitheatre for informal seating. The park’s existing large trees provide shelter and bluestone benches would offer seating for those not wishing to sit on the ground. Access to a power point would also be available.

Proposed materials include bluestone, macrocarpa decking (for the performance area), copper detailing, subtle lighting and asphalt paving with basalt-sett edging – elements all successfully sported by the park’s Hopetoun entrance lookout, which was completed in late 2001.

When planned performances are not scheduled, part of the area could host sculptural forms or other artworks, creating an ever-changing point of interest for park visitors.

Designers have created plans for a versatile, easily maintainable performance area with minimal impact on Western Park’s unique landscape.

For further information on the proposed Western Park performance space or to make a submission, please call (09) 379 2020 or visit www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/projects and click on the link for this project.

ENDS

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