18 February 2011

Approval has been granted for two commercial developments in Hamilton. Council has allowed work to commence on a scaled-down retail and commercial development on the corner of Grey and Clyde Streets in Hamilton East. The other multi-level development is next to Wintec in the central city. The approved plan in Hamilton East is a scaled down version of what was originally put forward by the developer Homes for Living Ltd.

The proposal, for shops, offices, and licensed premises has reduced in floor space by more than a half to 1,629sqm. There will be 1201sqm retail, 91 car parks, a much smaller area of office and restaurant space, and no healthcare facilities as originally intended. One building has been removed, and the plan reduced from double to single storey.

Any adverse affects from the change have been assessed and considered to be less or unchanged from the effects approved in the original resource consent. Therefore, no new resource consent is required, but the original consent has been amended. The other development is on the vacant “sand-pit” site, next to Wintec’s Atrium building on the corner of Ward and Anglesea Sts in the central city, known as “City Gate.” The five level building, developed by McConnell Property Ltd, has a distinctive triangular glass and pre-cast concrete facade.

Most of the building will be offices, with retail, cafes, and licensed premises on the street level. Mayor Julie Hardaker said City Gate will be a significant addition to the Wintec tertiary precinct and CBD generally. “This is a stunning looking building and I am pleased to see these business opportunities open up in the city centre.”

ENDS

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