Locals eye up 2010
The ?third world? state of the former Petone College is foremost in the mind of Petone Community Board chairperson Gerald Davidson. ?Something has to happen with Petone College, it?s in a terrible shambles, and it?s really disgraceful what has happened. ?It?s a public asset that has been allowed to become a complete wreck,? says Mr Davidson. In a positive vein, he is anticipating Percy Reserve will come into its own next year. ?We are hopeful that the changes to the reserve will increase visitor numbers, with the provision of bus parking. ?The cruise ships, which have been quite a feature of Wellington for the past few years, will bring bus trips here and include the reserve,? he says. The history of the area is a draw card for travellers and the timing of opening up the reserve is ?fortuitous?. ?With the increased awareness of the protection of New Zealand flora it?s timely that these changes are made.? This year should herald improvements in the reserve, dependent on the management plan being approved. Also next year the Petone rail project will be complete and the Matangi trains will arrive around June. Normandale Residents Association president Peter Matcham says the council?s land review of Poto Road is the area?s most pressing issue and they want resolution on the matter next year. ?In 2010 the residents association would like to see part of Poto Road retained as an asset that can be developed for community use.? To help create a new entrance way to the community at Normandale Bridge the association is working alongside the Maungaraki Community Association. A local resident has volunteered to create a rhododendron flower display at the suburbs? entry, which both associations will support. ?We are working alongside Friends of Belmont Regional Park with common goals to develop a management plan for the area alongside Greater Wellington Regional Council. ?We have a few projects in planning stage there that we hope to turn the sod on this year,? he says. Eastbourne Community Board chairperson Ian Young is in the midst of writing a report on Rimu Street for 2010. Although he can?t disclose much information he says transforming the area is a priority. ?Rimu Street itself is our CBD, making it more attractive are the main points,? says Mr Young. The Eastbourne bus barn controversy is a thing of the past, and in 2010 Mr Young would like to see the developments completed. ?I?m interested to see what will happen there, we want to see the design guide for the bus barns, because that should become an iconic site,? he says.
