"The park is designed for people to enjoy. It will create a greater sense of belonging for our community by encouraging social interaction through a shared space to rest and play," Clout said.
Councillor Leanne Brown was excited about the new urban space and believed it would be a welcoming and relaxing area the public, ideally encouraging them to stay longer in the Mount central business district.
"Local businesses will also enjoy the economic benefits through increased foot traffic and a relaxed customer experience," Brown said.
"It will be a flexible, usable space that will enhance its unique surrounding and will accommodate a range of events as well as play a significant cultural role. As a city, we are changing, and we hope this will pave the way for similar projects across the city."
The transformation into a park is set to start on Wednesday with the removal of a small number of Phoenix palms at the northern end of the park. This will take place before Easter and after hours to minimise disruption. The northern end of the carpark will be blocked off following Easter weekend, with the remaining area of the car park available for customers as long as possible.
The temporary Tourism Bay of Plenty visitor information centre and the Mount Mainstreet office building will be shifted off-site in the week following Easter.
Council is working collaboratively with Mauao Properties Ltd, which is redeveloping the site at 113-121 Maunganui Road, adjacent to the northern end of the park, which will include outdoor dining facilities.
Mauao Properties Ltd is demolishing the existing building at 113-121 Maunganui Road with a new development being constructed. The new premises will house some high profile retailers along Maunganui Road. Additionally, there will be several hospitality offerings opening out onto the new open green space, where residents and visitors alike can enjoy food and beverages, all while soaking up the atmosphere.
The construction works on both the park and 113-121 Maunganui Road site are being coordinated to minimise disruption for the public. Both projects are scheduled to be completed and open in December 2018.
The number of parking spaces in the Phoenix car park area will fluctuate during construction. Parking spaces that remain available will become free of charge, with time limits. Four temporary spaces will be created for mobility parking near the development.
The final park design will retain up to 20 car parks, including mobility car parks. The parking area next to May Street will remain open and will be expanded to include 12 extra parking spaces. All parking will be free with time restrictions.
