Make-over for Hastings Street

18 September

Work has started on the million dollar make-over of Hastings Street South as it is readied to become a fitting entrance to the newly refurbished Hawke’s Bay Opera House. 

The road works and accompanying street-scaping are budgeted to cost $1.1 million and begin with Hastings District Council’s engineering contractors moving their machinery onto the site today. 

Works will include a new granite paved footpath outside the Opera House, limestone feature kerbs, and the planting of palm and olive trees.  The first major change will see the construction of a new roundabout on the intersection of Hastings and Eastbourne Streets. 

Colin Hosford from Hastings District Council’s Landmarks Team said the design of the works focused on quality.  “We want the design to add value to the stunning Opera House, so we’ve got quality paving, quality landscape elements, quality street furniture.  It will all work together to result in a unique streetscape that will compliment the cultural heart of Hastings.” 

The project will also include a revamp of the existing Wesley Church pocket park.  Hastings District Council and the Wesley Methodist Church have joined together to integrate the existing church parkland into the greater streetscape. 

“When the works are complete, a new urban retreat, with grass and trees, will be created for the public to enjoy,” said Mr Hosford. 

The design of the new road is a collaboration between local architect Raiford Gardiner, urban designers Isthmus Group and Hastings District Council.  Engineering work is being carried out by Whitakers Engineering. 

Hastings Street and some nearby streets will be closed for some parts of the construction period.  Works are due for completion by Christmas. 

“We will clearly signpost the road when it is closed, but we really need drivers to take care when they’re in the vicinity of street works.  For safety reasons, it’s vital people pay attention to signs and travel the alternative routes outlined,” said Mr Hosford.