Demolition will see market expand

GROWING BUSINESS: The successful Whangarei Growers' Market will have room to spread with the demolition of the old Z Energy building on Water St. PHOTO/FILE

The old Z Energy building on Water St is to be demolished before June to allow for the expansion of the popular Whangarei Growers' Market.

The 20/20 inner city revitalisation committee of Whangarei District Council voted to demolish the building at Wednesday's meeting but is yet to decide on future development of the overall site.

The toilet block is to be retained for use by stallholders.

The market's organisers were also keen to see containers being used, such as those in Christchurch, an idea supported by Councillor Greg Innes.

"I went to Christchurch to see the shipping containers. They are a vibrant part of the city centre, they could add value here," he said.

Councillor Brian McLachlan said nobody had put any concrete ideas forward for further development of the site.

However, Whangarei Mayor Sheryl Mai said NorthTec and Manaia Health PHO had approached the council informally about use of the site.

Whangarei District Council group manager for district living Paul Dell said the council would have to explore the issue of container use.

"We are leaving the toilet block as a courtesy to the market stallholders but yes, we expect the building will be demolished before June."

The site would eventually form part of the "Emerald Necklace", a band connecting rivers, streams, green areas and walkways in the city.

The market has been running for around 16 years.