Residents push for bold plans for Havelock

BY CHERIE HOWE

Havelock residents have outlined a series of bold renewal measures, including moving Sanford's mussel factory and the Havelock Motor Camp, as they call for the town to reclaim its connection with the sea.

Forty residents last night took part in a public brainstorming session with Auckland-based planners Urbanismplus, commissioned by the Marlborough District Council to design renewal plans.

The plans are part of a Marlborough-wide renewal project, which began in Blenheim last year and continues in north Marlborough, including Havelock and Picton, this year.

Enthusiastic residents proposed dozens of improvements, ranging from minor projects such as steps for the Motu Weka walkway to major developments such as a new swimming pool.

A recurring theme was the need for Havelock to improve its links with the water that surrounds it.

Jennie Johnson was the first to suggest the move.

"Let's shift Sanford's to the southern end [of the marina reclamation area] and use their wonderful site for development, whether it be retail or recreational. That's the biggie."

The idea was backed by several other residents, who lamented that while Havelock was a seaside village, visitors coming from the east did not see the water until they were leaving town.

Havelock Vision 2020 convenor Wendy Walker said it was time for Havelock to reclaim its links to the sea.

"What makes us different from Blenheim and Seddon and Ward is that we are a seaside village, but at the moment you can't see that."

David Walker chimed in, saying it was time the one and a half million vehicles that passed through Havelock each year saw what the town was really about.

"We've got to shift the central business district closer to the port."

Calls for the camping ground to move to empty land between State Highway 6 and Outram St were also aired, with the vacated camping ground site then to be used for a heated indoor pool and park.

Brenda Oldfield and Sharyn Smith wanted Havelock's mussel industry to be celebrated in a multi-purpose building which could also double as an information centre.

"This town really needs a purpose-built information centre," Ms Oldfield said.

Mrs Smith had an even bolder suggestion for how to recognise the industry.

"Like the [Paeroa] L & P bottle, we could have a giant green-lipped mussel."

Other ideas included:

Extending the 70kmh and 50kmh speed limit zones at Havelock's eastern and western entrances.

Extending Neil St to the marina.

More signage, particularly at the town entrances, and the Queen Charlotte Drive turnoff.

A "do-it-yourself" guide to Havelock's historical attractions.

Improved kerbs and channels and more car parking.

More recreational facilities such as a gym, BMX track, paintball, mini-golf and maze.

A saltwater swimming pool on the western side of town.

Residents' ideas will now be investigated by Urbanismplus, with a draft plan to be released in April for public consultation.

A final report will be completed by June, with the Marlborough District Council looking at funding options next year.

- The Marlborough Express