Editorial: Good thing eyesore is going

The Flaming Maniacs perform at the Mid-winter Hastings Night Market in the CBD during the Matariki evening. Photo / Glenn Taylor

In the two-and-a-half years I have worked for Hawke's Bay Today, I have grown rather fond of the Hastings CBD.

There has been much negative comment over the years and a few comparisons between it and Napier, but the fact is that a lot of hard work by many people has gone into improving the look of the town.

It has become an enjoyable place to work and occasionally, when I get the chance, I like to go for a quick stroll around. The whole atmosphere in town is better. The City Assist staff, who patrol the area, have done wonders. They are low-key and friendly, but have managed to stamp out, from what I can see, the petty crime and loitering that used to go on.

The night market on a Thursday has also been great, drawing a lot of people into town. The Hastings City Business Association and others involved deserve praise for this.

But, the one eyesore that continues to detract from the CBD is the Albert Hotel. I walk past it quite often and always muse about what could be there. Well, finally something is being done about it after a lot of talk.The good news is that the Albert will be gone by Christmas, as we report on the front page and page five of today's paper.

The driving force behind this move is businessman Michael Whittaker, who is also chairman of the Hastings City Business Association. He owns the site and while he still plans to have a two-level office development there, the time for that is not right. In the meantime there will be a green space on the site and a temporary shopping centre made with shipping containers.

I reckon this is a fantastic idea and can't wait to see it happen. We will keep you updated on the progress.

It seems like it will be the start of the long-term rejuvenation of Hastings CBD.