Upgrade for Newlands Town Centre

Pictures: Justin Lester

Work will commence in July to complete the extensive work that has gone into McMillan Court in the Newlands mall shopping centre to make it a more attractive and inviting shopping destination.

The final stage of the works will see the removal of the glass canopy in McMillan Court, which has been repeatedly vandalised over several years, and replaced with a more modern and open courtyard feel. The canopy will be replaced with new planting, benches, furniture, wind shelter and security lighting for the courtyard and adjacent car park.

"We’ve seen dramatic improvements to the Newlands centre in the past three years. New World was developed and Wellington City Council has invested $1m in the public space and car park area – we’ve seen rising numbers of people shopping locally and a renewed sense of pride in the suburb. This has been great, not just for Newlands, but Woodridge, Paparangi and Grenada Village too,'' Deputy Mayor Justin Lester said.

“Newlands business owners were surveyed about the canopy removal and it received their unanimous support. In the past the canopy has been used by vandals to gain access on to the top of shops, with damage often being reported. I have also spoken to local residents and members of the Newland Paparangi Progressive Association, who also support the change.”

Mr Lester expects the improvements and new amenities will help contribute to the sense of community in Newlands. He hopes the increased shoppers will also encourage new investment by commercial property owners in the area and new businesses will be attracted to the Mall and main road.

“Newlands is becoming an increasingly attractive place for Wellingtonians to buy their first home and bring up a family. These improvements will help the positive trend.”

The works are continuation of the Newlands Centre Plan to provide better public spaces and amenities, encourage investment, and have a greater range of shops and services in Newlands.

For further information you can contact Deputy Mayor Justin Lester, justin.lester@wcc.govt.nz or 021 247 8312

Proposed Changes

Existing canopy:

ENDS

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