Hamiltonians are one step closer to having a safe swimming area in the river as summer approaches, with the first four projects of the River Plan getting under way.
The plan is for the development of the 16km of the riverbank that runs through the city over the next 30 years though various projects, four of which start immediately.
One of the four projects that has been given the green light is the installation of an "enhanced river swimming experience" at Wellington Street Beach and redevelopment of the riverbank and facilities.
The River Plan includes six themes - access, recreation, development, natural environment, arts and culture, and tourism - which have been developed from public feedback, and are included in the seven development sites. These sites will be central city; Braithwaite Park/Pukete Pa; St Andrews Golf Course; Day's Park and Swarbrick Landing; Hamilton East; Hayes Paddock/Wellington Street Beach, and Hamilton Gardens/Te Parapara.
An important aspect of the plan is telling the history of the river and the significant sites for Maori. A project will start within the next year to mark historic pa sites along the river.