Mayor Clark’s Wish List From Central Government

Invercargill Mayor Nobby Clark is hopeful the new Government will provide necessary funding for an emergency water supply in city, as well as help address the city’s housing needs, fit out the new museum and support a new civic hub development.

Top priority in the Invercargill City Council’s Beyond 2025 Economic Development Plan is replacing the older housing stock around the city, for the changing needs of the community – particularly elderly.

The Invercargill City Council is committed to addressing the shortage through changes to the District Plan, which will support more intensive housing development.

A central Government investment of $36 million is needed to match council’s $13.7 million estimated land contribution to build 100 two-bedroom units for older people.

The council is already in talks with mana whenua about partnership opportunities, and has land earmarked in the Esk Street car parking space for apartments.

Regarding an alternative water supply, the Awarua site has been identified and council has $29.5 million allocated to the $59 million project.

The additional Government funding will mean the alternative emergency source will support new industry in the area.

Council is also seeking $6 million from central Government towards the fitout of Te Unua Museum of Southland, and also to be able to provide a world-class digital experience.

Lastly, in order to be able to work more closely with central, regional and local government and iwi partners, council is working on a civic hub proposal.

The multi-purpose facility will bring together community services, as well as be a civic gathering space incorporating the arts.

The existing buildings around the city for many community organisations are coming to the end of their life, and a new state-of-the-art facility is proposed.

This will enable a shared working space including a civic defence headquarters, and council has allocated $42.8 million towards the proposed $200 million project.