Facelift forges ahead in Auckland's Avondale

Caryn Wilkinson Reporter from Community News

The planned upgrade to Auckland's Avondale is set to start with installation of a new concrete footpath, new bike racks and improved street lighting.

Auckland Transport will this week start building the first half of the footpath upgrade, expected to be finished by mid-March.

The $720,000 work comprises removing and replacing the slippery pavers with a safer, concrete surface, as well as upgrading the bike parking.

Auckland Transport and the Whau Local Board are co-funding the upgrade which was delayed in 2019 due to the Covid-19 emergency budget.

Whau Local Board chair Kay Thomas said the board was really pleased the slippery pavers would be gone.

"There have been far too many injuries and near-misses in the town centre," Thomas said.

"As soon as there’s any water on the pavers they become a hazard, so by removing and replacing them with a concrete surface we’ll have a better town centre for everyone."

Avondale will be revitalised over the next 15 years in a project led by
Auckland Council's urban regeneration agency, Panuku Development Auckland.

An enhanced town square and a purpose built community facility are planned.

Panuku is designing "quality housing options at varying price-points" and improved walking connections from the rail station to the town centre.

What do you think of the plans to revitalise Avondale?

Which other Auckland suburbs do you believe would benefit from a makeover?

*Please put NFP if you do not want your comments used by Stuff.

Photograph: Supplied by Panuku. Artist's impression on new community centre to be developed in Auckland's Avondale.