CBD upgrades continue across the city

Upgraded: St Patrick's square

From City Scene, published on 1 November, 2009.

Whether you live in the CBD, commute to the city for work, or visit for shopping or entertainment, you will notice some of the great upgrades taking place.

Since 2004, eight streets and open spaces have received a new lease of life as part of the 10-year programme to transform our CBD into a great destination to live, work and play in. These include Queen Street, Lorne Street, Vulcan Lane, Quay Street, Karangahape Road, Swanson Street and lower Khartoum Place.

The most recent success was the official reopening of St Patrick's Square (pictured left), with hundreds enjoying the opening celebrations at Auckland's new urban oasis recently.

"The upgrade celebrates the square's heritage and has transformed this important space into a place of respite from the hustle and bustle of the central city," says Mayor of Auckland city, Hon. John Banks.

"Residents, visitors and businesses can already see the real difference these upgrades are making to the look and feel of the CBD."

Aotea Square has recently reached the half way mark in its redevelopment, and next in line are Elliott and Darby streets, six streets in the Fort Street area, Lorne Street (stage 2), upper Khartoum Place, O'Connell Street and Kitchener Street south.

A number of the streets will incorporate shared space, which is designed to make the CBD's streets more pedestrian-friendly, provides opportunities for activities like outdoor dining and events, and attracts and supports business.

The 10-year $162.5 million streets and open spaces upgrade programme is largely funded by the CBD targeted rate, a special rate paid by CBD residents and businesses. It is part of $965 million the council is investing in the CBD in total.

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