30 June 2006

The next step for Khartoum Place

Changes will be made to the design for the redevelopment of Khartoum Place as a result of the feedback received from public consultation.

The Urban Strategy and Governance Committee yesterday reviewed an analysis of public feedback on the new draft concept design for Khartoum Place. The feedback showed that people support the new concept design and agree that the proposed design with some minor changes will make Khartoum Place a safer and more attractive part of the CBD.

Some of the details that will be addressed in the development of the revised concept design include more public seating, paving and drainage, lighting to create a safer open space and adequate loading for galleries on Kitchener Street.

The revised concept design will also address the feedback received about existing safety and maintenance of the area, the removal of the kiosk on Lorne Street and the need for public toilets in the area.

Mayor of Auckland city, Dick Hubbard, says, "Khartoum Place is a distinct and intimate part of the CBD. Making it a safer and more attractive area for people to enjoy will enhance this unique area."

The consultation feedback showed that people like the new design for its diversity of spaces, features, texture and sounds, which create a more attractive and stimulating environment.

The feedback also suggested that people like the introduction of more lighting, both natural and artificial which creates a safer open space.

Many submitters also found the design functional and elegant, and liked the new surfaces and sight lines.

The draft concept design includes preserving the Women's Suffragette Centenary (1893-1993) tile artwork and making the area a safer and more attractive place to stop and stay, meet friends, take part in special events or just pass through.

"The upgrade of Khartoum Place will contribute to our long-term strategy of making Auckland's CBD one of the world's most vibrant and dynamic business and cultural centres. The invaluable feedback we have received on the draft concept design for Khartoum Place will help us to deliver this vision," says Mr Hubbard.

The revised concept design, incorporating the feedback will be complete in August 2006.

ENDS

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