More Discussion This Week on Surplus Council Land and Buildings

It could be good news for Invercargill City this week if the council decides to try and sell off some of its surplus land and buildings.

Under the spotlight to be discussed at this week’s Infrastructure Committee meeting on Tuesday is an Esk Street carpark as well as the Levin Street carpark valued at $6.5 million.

Land and a building on Bond Street valued at 2.2 million is also on the table amongst the six different properties.

A report to the committee outlines the various options and summarises the review of the council-owned land (excluding parks and reserves and investment property), for disposal following a Long Term Plan discussion on May 16.

City councillors will consider their potential for re-purposing or sale, along with several parcels of parks and reserves around Invercargill – the latter of which involves public consultation.

Mayor Nobby Clark said several months ago developers had shown interest in the 37ha of surplus land at Donovan Park, which could fetch up to $6 million.

He said there were 15 parcels of land around the city that were being looked at, with Donovan Park the biggest.  It was not currently used for anything.

While there is no legislative requirement for community engagement via public consultation prior to disposal of land, council staff will engage with stakeholders (including lessees and Te Runanga of Ngai Tahu) where appropriate, on the land and the buildings proposed for sale.

Council staff will also consult with Te Ao Marama on behalf of mana whenua on the list of land and any cultural significance to tangata whenua.  Any sites with cultural significance will be identified.