Wellington City Council last year approved funding for an upgrade as part of the Long-term Plan 2021-2031. Koata Hātepe, the Council’s Regulatory Processes Committee, will consider related traffic and parking changes at a meeting on 14 December and decide whether to proceed.
The planned improvements and upgrade for the area are designed to improve access, increase safety, and strengthen the suburb’s special identity. If approved, work is expected to start mid-next year.
Island Bay upgrade project page
Following a Council decision earlier in the year, the plans have been developed in collaboration with people who live and run businesses in the area. The proposed design includes improvements to the main shopping centre, and areas around the library, and Empire Cinema & Eatery.
They include more outdoor space where people can sit, relax or have a coffee, better lighting, planter boxes and garden areas, and benches and seats.
If approved, businesses will be encouraged to consider having their own outdoor tables, chairs, signs, and activities in line with the Council’s Trading and Events in Public Places Policy.
Island Bay Library will become a hub for children and people on foot, with a child-friendly area outside the building.
Two local artists will develop new murals on the public toilets at the intersection of Medway Street and The Parade, and in the pedestrian accessway between Clyde Street and The Parade.
The design has a marked path that will connect with the bike lanes north and south of the shops for people who want to safely and slowly bike or scoot into or through the shopping centre.