New square takes a step closer

Plans to revamp Carterton's Millennium Square are progressing with neighbours being consulted.

The square is opposite Memorial Park, and was named because the area was first developed at the turn of the millennium. Council decided to embark on a revamp of the area after the area's water feature was taken down about a year ago. Carterton District Council chief executive officer Colin Wright said the project was still at an early stage. "There has been a bit of consultation with neighbours [who have given] some comments and suggestions," Mr Wright said.

Council would soon hold a workshop session to decide the final plan.

He said the budget was likely to be about $5000. "It's not a particularly big project at this stage but it's just something to make that area more attractive," Mr Wright said.

He was unsure when work was likely to begin but said it could be some time in the next financial year, which begins in July. "The whole thing depends on when they sign off the plan and determine a budget for it. [It's] too early to be specific about it."

A report to the council meeting yesterday from community facilities manager Brian McWilliams said the concept plans had been shown to a partner of law firm Taverner Keys & Co and to partners from deli/cafe Wild Oats to gauge their views. Wild Oats was very supportive of the plan and had several comments including having a place to put a New Zealand flag and a lawn to the edge which would give a clean look to the area. Taverner Keys had no objections.

"However they had a concern regarding the use of the public car-park adjacent to their building," the report said.