They aren’t exactly the twinkling lights normally associated with Christmas but Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board chair Tauanu'u Bakulich is still celebrating Mangere Town Centre being better lit than ever.
“We have always worked alongside the Māngere Town Centre Business Association on measures to improve the experience of visiting the area.
“There have been issues around safety and the lights will certainly improve security and safety at what has previously been a dark and uninviting space. The funding comes from crime prevention through environmental design initiatives, and around $8,000 has been spent."
The idea is to brighten the whole area to deter anti-social behavior.
Bollards will be installed in the walkway next year to prevent vehicle access and camera upgrades are also planned.
"As a board we are very pleased that after a lot of advocacy new lighting is in place. We want our people to feel safe in their own neighbourhood and while we always say our people are hospitable, friendly and welcoming, incidents have happened, just as they do in the rest of the city.”
He says the business association works tirelessly to improve the town. “We are lucky to have a progressive team that is always working to improve things for our residents.”
Baukulich says creating a vibrant community is at the heart of the board’s plan.
“Everybody wants to be able to move about freely without having to be worried for their safety. Community is very much at the heart of everything we do.
“Having groups like the Māngere Town Centre Business Association help us to achieve that is welcome.”
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