Report back and decision set for August

 

This morning I was at the Auckland Development Committee listening in on the debate around what to do with Queen Elizabeth Square in downtown Auckland. The debate was pretty good although some not necessary outbursts did mar the overall quality of the debate. I take my hat off to Councillor Cameron Brewer who articulated the main points around the Square debate very well today – as did Councillor Fletcher. Hopefully Councillor Brewer will get one of his fabled releases out as it will be a good one to see (for once).

Full commentary will be up tomorrow but in the meantime from Auckland Council:

First steps taken to redevelop downtown Auckland

 

Auckland Council has agreed in principle to negotiate the sale of Queen Elizabeth Square to Precinct Properties New Zealand Ltd in return for proceeds being used to provide quality downtown public spaces.

 

The square and the Downtown Shopping Centre sit above the route of the twin rail tunnels that will form part of the city rail link.

Precinct Properties proposes major redevelopment of its shopping centre and surrounding properties which it owns.

Proceeds from the commercial sale of the 2000m² public square could be used to develop an alternative public area, such as Admiralty Steps on the Quay street waterfront.

A plan by Precinct Properties for the comprehensive redevelopment of its property holdings in the area has also opened an opportunity to reintroduce aspects of historic Little Queen Street which was lost in earlier redevelopments.

Council staff believe Precinct Properties’ plans will also link with council proposals for the transformation of Quay Street waterfront.

“We are in the very early stages of proposals for this area,” said Deputy Mayor and Auckland Development Committee chair Councillor Penny Hulse. “With the city rail link tunnels running below Precinct Properties buildings, it makes sense to align the tunnel construction with the company’s development programme.

“Working with the company will produce the best outcome for all parties, including new public amenities at no cost to ratepayers.”

—ends—

 

Note that Queen Elizabeth Square has NOT been sold. However, the Council through today have made their intent known that they do wish to sell the Square back to the private sector.

A decision at the Auckland Development Committee in August will decide whether to actually sell the Square or not.

 

Full commentary tomorrow