Highflyers told to improve 'intrusive' deck

Highflyers will have to change its controversial new deck because it is too dominant on the footpath.

The Palmerston North bar's solid deck, with a view over The Square, differs from the plans approved by Palmerston North City Council and the bar will have to pull apart the walls around it.

The bar needed to reduce the visual impact of the deck, city council customer services general manager Peter Eathorne said.

Iron balustrades would be used so that pedestrians in the inner city could see through parts of the walls, he said.

Bar co-owner Ian McQueen said he would get builders to change the deck as soon as possible.

"We've got to do it right."

He decided to change the original design because of concerns that people might climb up or look up the skirts of patrons who were dining, but he now felt iron would improve the deck's appearance.

"We'll put it right as fast as we can."

Mr Eathorne said the council had received a number of complaints.

"The council approved a particular design," he said.

Palmerston North Stamp Centre owner Bruce Graves said the deck was a barrier to people looking to shop at Broadway Ave.

It affected foot traffic flow because people saw a wall where a footpath used to be, he said.

Palmerston North woman Kim Alunno, shopping in the city yesterday, said the deck was "a bit intrusive".

Retired Palmerston North man Alex McDonald said it looked ridiculous. "Why block a footpath so that somebody can pour more booze down people's throats?"

Bar co-owner Chris Ace said the deck was for outdoor dining, mainly for the lunchtime and afternoon trade. There was now a greater emphasis on food, he said.

Musician Brent Tanoa, drummer for Lockwood 104, said the deck created a good view.

Shoe Clinic owner Nigel Hart said only time would tell whether pedestrians were put off walking past.

"I think it's an eyesore. I think it could've been done better, from an aesthetic point of view."

Mr McQueen said it appealed to some people and not to others.

"We've had more positive comments than negative comments."

- © Fairfax NZ News