MEDIA RELEASE
3 November 2005

Mahunga Drive Business Area Upgrades Image And Security

Manukau City Council's Economic Development Committee has approved further funding of $100,000 (making a total of $150,000) to revitalise the Mahunga Drive business area to help attract and retain businesses.

This will be done by enhancing the business area’s physical environment through signage, landscaping, traffic safety and roading improvements.

Town Centre planner Pam French says, “Council staff have consulted with the business association and the Mangere Community Board and agreed on options for the proposed plans. The nature of the work required is such that the original $50,000 approved in February is not sufficient. The community has also had a chance to air their views.

“The business association is committed to reducing crime through increased security initiatives and has contributed to the enhancement of their area by becoming a Business Improvement District in the 2005/2006 financial year.

“Crime Prevention through Environmental Design principles have been incorporated throughout the project with ‘territorial reinforcement’ which defines boundaries and creates a feeling of ownership, This has been done through gateway signage to welcome people to the business area and gardens to show people care about the area.”

It is proposed that signage is constructed at the north and south end of the business area to identify the business district. Other work includes improvements in the environs approaching the business area, locating banners on existing light poles and creating a single speed limit in the main corridor where there are currently two speeds.

For further information on Manukau’s Town Centre Strategy visit the website www.manukau.govt.nz/town-centres.htm

ENDS

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