Editorial: Fencing unnecessary sideshow

UPGRADE: The Hawke's Bay Opera House centenary will be celebrated with art works on a new fence. PICTURE/SUPPLIED

I'm all for brightening up a dull spot.

However, I am a little miffed at Hastings District Council's plans to give the opera house corner a "funky do-up".

Yes, the grand old dame is looking a little sad and lonely. It's been an age since performers were warming up backstage and crowds were streaming through her doors.

The council has decided to put up a fence designed to display art on the eve of the Hawke's Bay Opera House's 100th birthday. Works by 10 artists will adorn the fence.

Mayor Lawrence Yule says the works will brighten up the area, which has a "very utilitarian" look at the moment.

Obviously it's disappointing that the opera house cannot be opened for the milestone but Mr Yule says it is an "exciting way" for the council to do what it can.

The council does not yet know how much the project will cost but it will be a small drop in the bucket compared with what is needed to get the doors open again.

So it begs the question: why do we need to spend more money on beautifying fencing?

It is estimated repairing the opera house and adjacent Hastings Municipal Buildings to about 70 per cent of the current building code will be near $18 million.

The cost means the council has to reconsider plans to develop Civic Square and potentially invest in an inner-city hotel.

Yes, the opera corner is not a pretty sight but let's keep our eyes and spending on the big picture.

A decision on what to do with the earthquake-prone buildings will be made in the next six months or so, after the public have had a chance to have their say.