Owhiro Bay carpark upgrade gets go ahead

An upgrade of the old quarry carpark including the demolition of the existing building at Owhiro Bay was given the green light by Wellington City Councillors today at the Strategy and Policy Committee meeting.

Eastern Ward Councillor Ray Ahipene-Mercer says the area is the entrance and carpark for one of Wellington’s most popular reserve areas, serving Red Rocks and the Sinclair Head seal colony.

“Our vision is for this carpark area to become a gateway to the South Coast – reflecting the natural coastal values and at the same time allowing visitors to enjoy their recreational activities.”

Key elements in the upgrade include public toilets, improved traffic circulation and car parking, information and interpretation signs, seating, rubbish bins and landscaping.

Councillors approved the design brief and preliminary concept sketch for the upgrade, the demolition of the old quarry building and the development of a purpose-built information/interpretation kiosk and toilets to replace it. The Committee agreed that the two sections adjacent to the carpark area should be declared surplus and asked officers to report back about the disposal process. They also agreed to include the carpark and entrance upgrade in the 2006/07 Long Term Council Community Plan.

Cr Ahipene-Mercer says the next steps include preparing a detailed landscape plan for community feedback and applying for funding for the upgrade through the 2006/07 Draft Annual Plan.

“This is the final chapter in the Council’s purchase of the Owhiro Bay Quarry five years ago. All going well the redevelopment will happen during the 2006/07 financial year.”

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