A new vision for the Mount Maunganui Shopping Centre's Phoenix Carpark could see it transformed into a park for shoppers to unwind - the opposite of council's plans to transform it into shops and offices.
Mount developer Bain McDonald wants the area converted into an attractive open space where people could relax and eat their lunches.
His plan relied on replacing the lost carparks by developing a new carpark on the former Mount Bowling Club greens at the back of Coronation Park.
The pay-and-display Phoenix Carpark was not popular with shoppers except during the four-to-six weeks over summer when parking was at a premium.
Mr McDonald outlined his plan to a city council meeting yesterday, with architect Graham Price and retailer Glen Sheaff lending their support.