The vision for this key move sees the city centre core recognised by residents, business and visitors alike as the hub of New Plymouth. Defined by Queen Street in the west and Liardet Street in the east, it is where the bustle of the city is alive and well – with a concentration of workers, retailers, hospitality and locals mixing alongside out-of-city visitors seeking out the latest arts, culture and recreation offer within the city.
The city core area is focused as a high-amenity public realm that encourages lingering and interaction. It has the highest footfall and share of office, retail and hospitality floor space in the city and pedestrian movement and public life are prioritised. It has local retail shopfronts that engage with the street, along with easy wayfinding for all ages and abilities.
New partnerships, independent review mechanisms and funding sources will ensure that high quality standards are achieved in every aspect of what makes the city centre core special.
The Taranaki region sits at the forefront of New Zealand’s transition to a low emissions.
The city core has the potential to become a lead area for emerging technologies, for example, the introduction of a low-emissions zone (a low-emission zone (LEZ) is a defined area where access by some polluting vehicles is restricted or deterred with the aim of improving air quality), application of NZ Green Building Council ratings for new developments, and more sustainable transport options. City centre projects will align with Council's climate response initiatives.
A suite of projects to enhance pedestrian amenity, universal design, safety, planting and the ability for key public spaces to hold markets and events effectively. Many street edges and laneways are currently known for the vibrant artwork on adjoining walls. These projects seek to build off this memorable city centre trait and complement it with improvements at ground level.
The future success of our city core will substantially rely on small independent retailers that can collectively present a distinct destination offer. A programme of initiatives to assist start-ups, small business and existing retailers can include short-term retail spaces to test trade, an online shopping platform, meanwhile uses of empty shop fronts and social procurement programmes to support local business and supply chains. Attracting an anchor activity or institution could also be a catalyst for complementary businesses, networks and services who may wish to co-locate to take up proximity benefits.
A city that’s easy to get around is a city that is easy to enjoy – particularly one with events to experience. Placemaking and wayfinding improvements are ways to enhance the experience of the city centre and make it easy to get around.
There are large retail sites and buildings adjacent to the coastal edge and the Huatoki that present opportunity. Considered redesign so they are more outward facing will enable better connection between the city and its open space network and amenity. Transforming sites to street-based retail/mixed-use developments will foster street life and footfall that also supports other businesses/destinations in the city core.
Was this page useful?
Page last updated: 12:50pm Tue 07 December 2021