Takapuna town square plans greenlit by Local Board

A new town square is one step closer for Takapuna as the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board approved the concept design today.

Conceived as a multipurpose space, the square will be fit to hold a range of events and activities. Care has been taken to ensure the Sunday Market will be able to continue—with a possible arrangement allowing for 86 stalls in the square, 17 along the lane and 20 more along Hurstmere Road, for a total of 123 stalls.

A water feature, outdoor dining area and a potential space for an ANZAC memorial are all part of the plan.

The design references local geographical features, in particular the underground springs flowing from Lake Pupuke to Takapuna Beach. The entrances to the square take inspiration from the water bodies nearest them, including the Waitematā Harbour, Lake Pupuke and the Hauraki Gulf.

The concept was designed by Isthmus Group in partnership with mana whenua appointed representatives, Angell and Vern Rosier.

Community feedback took place over 2017 and 2018 to develop the initial plans. 5,300 submissions helped determine the location and shape of the square, which was settled on in 2018.

Aidan Bennett, Chair of the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board, said the design was fantastic and he was glad to see the project coming closer to fruition.

"I also appreciate the thought and effort that I know has gone into working out how the much-loved Sunday market could continue to operate and how events such as ANZAC Day could work in the space. I firmly believe this town square will be the beating heart of Takapuna, with spaces where we can hold events and get together."

Construction is slated to begin in early-mid 2021. Until that time, the car park at 40 Anzac Street will remain open.

"It's very satisfying that Panuku has agreed to keep the Anzac Street car park open for as long as possible to ensure that Takapuna has plenty of parking during the Hurstmere Road upgrade. With the new Gasometer car park also coming on stream soon, car parking in Takapuna will be in abundance," Bennett said.

June and July will see Panuku Development Auckland and the Devonport-Takapuna Local Board engaging the public to determine whether the design meets the objectives outlined in previous feedback.

^{Top banner image credit: Panuku Development Auckland}