Plans to develop a combined library and community hub in Takapuna have taken another step forward following the decision to progress to the design and costing stage of the project by Devonport-Takapuna Local Board.
Investigations will now begin on the board’s preferred option, which is to completely renovate the existing Takapuna Library building to create a fit-for-purpose facility where the community can enjoy the benefits of combined library and community services.
This will include investigating the potential addition of a smaller third level that takes advantage of the library’s unique location, maximising ocean views.
Development of the community hub will be funded through the sale proceeds from 2 The Strand and the Mary Thomas Centre, and while it is expected that the Takapuna Community Service Building will have to be sold to fund the entire project, that will be decided at a later date.
Best option
Devonport-Takapuna Local Board Chair, Toni van Tonder says that renovating the existing library building is the best option for the community.
“The board is committed to providing a high-quality valuable library and community hub to meet the needs of our community, and it has become clear to us that renovating the existing library building will deliver the best value for money.
“We want a beautifully designed, uplifting and fit-for-purpose facility that everyone can use, can cater for a growing population and be flexible enough to cater for changing needs of that population.
“In the current financial climate, it is also important to us that we manage this process without imposing any extra financial burden on the ratepayers, so funding the project through the sale of underperforming properties is the most sensible and financially prudent approach.
“All that said, we are really excited about this project. We know how much a facility such as this will be cherished by the community, and we are looking forward to seeing the results of the design and costing stage.
“The board can’t wait to hear from the community what they want this space to include. As the city’s only library by the seaside, we have an opportunity here to work with our residents to make something incredibly special that is welcoming and accessible to everyone, a community hub that will endure as a cornerstone building in Takapuna.”
Next Steps
The next phase will provide the opportunity for the community to be involved and the results of the investigations will be brought to the board by May 2025.
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