Taumarunui Ready for Iconic Town Centre

Taumarunui’s Town Centre Project gathered pace this week with the visit of Bespoke Landscape Architects the urban designers selected to provide the detailed concept plans for the redevelopment.

The Town Centre Project involves the redevelopment of the top end of Manuate St and the area along Hakiaha St from the old library through to the town clock.

While in Taumarunui Bespoke undertook site visits with Council staff and held a series of focus group meetings with stakeholders.

Ruapehu Mayor Don Cameron said that the focus group meetings were designed so that Bespoke could develop a deeper understanding of the town and what people think and feel about the spaces they would be working with.

“The meetings reinforced earlier research findings that found that the community are ready for something iconic and memorable in the town centre,” said Mayor Cameron.

“Taumarunui wants something to entice travellers to stop and for locals to be proud of. A town centre space that celebrates Taumarunui's history but also its aspirations for the future being both modern and a reflection of our landscape.”

Mayor Cameron said that Bespoke will now undertake more in-depth research into Taumarunui and develop initial concept options in sketch format that clearly articulate the key design elements and how these will contribute to, and improve the space.

“The initial concept ideas will be discussed with stakeholders to ensure they are on-track and from there the full concept designs will be created.”

“By November we expect to have detailed concept plans which will be used to consult with the community on what is envisaged.”

Mayor Cameron added that Taumarunui residents should see this as the first part of a journey of township revitalisation and continue to engage with and support the process.

“Putting Taumarunui and our other townships on a path to growth and prosperity will take ideas, energy and passion from the people who will benefit the most, our local communities.”

“I would urge people to keep pushing revitalisation along and take part in the opportunities to have your say and influence the process,” he said.

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