The improved design was confirmed following a positive consultation process with tangata whenua, Wairaka Marae Whānau, local boating representatives and the wider community. It allows for safe, accessible stairs and a ramp to be constructed in the area.
Since opening in December 2017, the playground and surrounding green spaces have been enjoyed by many, however the access steps to Whakatāne River have received some criticism.
General Manager Community Experience, Georgina Fletcher, says Council has listened to community concern and is pleased the work is now starting.
“We’re committed to providing a safe place for people to access the river in this location, particularly for young users, and while we appreciate this has taken time, it’s been vital to get the improvements right in collaboration with the reference group who helped guide necessary changes.”
She continues, “We’re pleased to have worked closely with our communities to ensure the space is fit for purpose and meets the cultural and amenity values while having a strong focus on improved safety access to the awa for those wanting to gather kai, to play, or to sit and enjoy the view.”
Georgina says the design aims to improve the existing situation in terms of access, safety, cultural outcomes, environmental outcomes, and usability.
The improvement works are budgeted for within the existing Annual Plan and include the removal of all intermediate steps and handrails from the existing concrete terraces on the southern side of the river access area, removal of the perimeter wall of the river access area to below sand level and the installation of wider concrete terraces with a lower gradient. Intermediate steps will then be added between the terraces along with handrails.
In addition, a new ramp will be installed from the existing boardwalk through to the river access area at the base of the new steps, with handrails placed either side.
Local contractor, Tracks Concrete will be on site from Monday installing safety fencing around the immediate work area. The adjacent playground, public toilets and water fountains will be accessible throughout the course of the improvements works.
Construction is expected to take six weeks to complete, weather dependant.
