Growing business in Masterton

A proposal to redevelop a 1200sq m site in Masterton's Perry Street to house a cluster of smaller businesses is in the pipeline and is regarded by its owner as a complement to the planned town square likely to be built later this year.

Podiatrist Adam Philps is moving Masterton Foot Clinic from its rented premises in Chapel Street to 39 Perry Street and, although his premises will be doubled in size, most of the section will be available for tenanting to other businesses.

Mr Philps, 34, said yesterday the foot clinic was in dire need of more space to cater for six staff and clients and will definitely relocate to Perry Street.

He said there is a 130sq m building already on the land, now used by a print business, but even after the foot clinic's expansion most of the land will remain available for tenants to set up shop.

Mr Philps said the development was in its "conceptual phase" but he has drawn up building plans and has had an architect's impression prepared.

This is Mr Philps' first sortie into property development and he is being "mentored" by David Borman, who is the driving force behind the village square project.

Mr Philps said developing 39 Perry Street along the lines of his concept plans would likely cost $1 million.

On the downside of the development, Supergrans, which is using the land rent-free as a community garden, will have to move out. However, Masterton Mayor Garry Daniell is trying to find a new home for the organisation, Mr Philps said.

"We take over on October 31 and the intention is to move other businesses on to the land. It's going to be an eco-friendly development to suit small to medium businesses or a collection of micro-businesses that may only need a 40sq m unit," he said.

Mr Philps said there would be a green space in the centre which could be used by staff for lunch breaks and the whole idea was to build on what was already in the pipeline for the street.

"The Perry Street story is gaining momentum and this development will provide further evidence of that. It will join David Borman's town square which is due to begin this year and link up with the Markham's site across the road."