In November 2008 Rodney District Council adopted an Urban Design Framework for Helensville which is aimed at protecting the special heritage character of the town.
A copy of the Urban Design Framework can be viewed here.
The new design framework identifies a number of improvements that could be made to Helensville to retain the town’s historic atmosphere, redevelop facilities and provide adequate space for areas to live and work in.
Extensive consultation has been undertaken to develop the framework. The South Kaipara Forum, which represents local ratepayer associations and interested residents, assisted with the development of the framework.
More than 90 submissions were received on the draft framework. Specific proposals which received a high level of public support through submissions included using Creek Lane as a market square at certain times and as a location for new public toilets. Submitters also supported concentrating retail activity along Commercial Road to reduce retail sprawl and to create a village atmosphere.
Projects identified in the framework as priorities include a streetscape upgrade of Creek Lane and development of new public toilets there.
The projects identified in the Urban Design Framework will be included in the Council’s Long Term Council Community Plan for public consultation. Consultation on this document will occur in April 2009.
The Council will also investigate creating heritage rules to guide future development on the northern end of Commercial Road which would allow for retail development along this road, while retaining the area’s heritage character.
A further concept identified in the Urban Design Framework, which will be further investigated, is to provide mixed living and working areas that would allow people easy access to shops and other retail areas from their homes.
For more information contact us.