20th-century Gisborne building to receive 21st-century refresh

An artist's impression of what the upgraded Bates' Buildings will look like. Photo / Gisborne Holdings Limited

A 98-year-old building block in Lowe St is set to get a revamp as part of a Gisborne city centre revitalisation plan.

Work on the Bates’ Buildings on the corner of Lowe St and Reads Quay starts next week.

The two-storey structure, erected in 1928 on a property owned by J.W. Bates of Hastings, was bought by Gisborne Holdings Limited (GHL) in December to complement the revitalisation plan – a joint effort between Gisborne District Council, GHL, Trust Tairāwhiti and the wider community.

GHL is the commercial arm of the council.

Refurbishment of the Bates' Buildings on the corner of Lowe St and Reads Quay begins next week. Photo / Chris Taewa

Work will start next week with canopy replacements. Scaffolding will then be put up for the rest of the work, including painting and the installation of new signage, fascias and lighting.

James Jenkins, GHL’s general manager - commercial operations, said the work was “exciting” for the city.

“It is an investment in the city centre to promote revitalisation while improving our property returns as well.

“The refurbishment of the building is aiming to improve the look and feel of the area and encourage revitalisation by promoting outdoor dining opportunities.”