"This project will establish a template for the future delivery of new community facilities alongside private development."
Panuku portfolio strategy and business development manager Marian Webb says ratepayers will benefit from the cost-effective provision of a modern, purpose-built community facility, while developers will benefit from the opportunity to unlock underutilised council land.
"Panuku envisions a mixed-use, medium-density development on the site, which is exactly what Auckland needs to grow its economy and provide more housing for its people," says Webb.
Chris Farhi, Colliers' strategic consulting director, says this project represents an exceptional opportunity for a developer with a proven track record to help transform this vision into a bricks and mortar reality.
"The high-profile corner site is ideally located to provide maximum exposure and breathtaking views. With its superb position at the heart of Meadowbank Village, the property offers easy access to public transport, local shops and the nearby supermarket. A new development on the site will benefit from stunning vistas towards the city, harbour and nearby golf course. The site is flat and of regular shape, presenting multiple opportunities for redevelopment."
Farhi says Meadowbank is an established and increasingly affluent suburb that is set to grow further in the coming decades.
"With its central location between Remuera and St Johns, closeness to the CBD, beaches and public transport links, Meadowbank is becoming one of Auckland's most sought-after suburbs."
The successful development partner will deliver the shell base building for a new ground-floor community centre of about 750 sqm.
Auckland Council will retain ownership of the community centre, while the developer will own the upper floors. The new Meadowbank Community Centre will provide an active space, meeting rooms of various sizes and capacities, at least 16 on-site car parks, and bicycle parking. Future activities will be similar to those already undertaken at the existing community centre.
Expressions of interest are to be submitted to Colliers by 4pm on February 27, after which parties will be shortlisted.
Criteria to be considered will be the developer's capabilities, capacity to deliver, track record in successfully delivering similar projects, indicative programme and corporate and financial structure.
Panuku may then choose to run a detailed request for proposals process to secure a development partner for the site.
