13 July 2016
Te Awamutu's new library is on track to open by November.
The $4.4 million library will anchor a new community hub, opposite the existing Trust Waikato Te Awamutu Events Centre. If fundraising is successful, the hub will ultimately include a proposed new museum along with recreation space, hospitality, accommodation and office facilities.
A $1.6 million upgrade began in May to link the new library, Selwyn Park, the existing playground and Events Centre to Te Awamutu's CBD. Work includes new footpaths in Selwyn Lane, three new raised pedestrian crossings, and improved lighting and landscaping work including tree planting.
When complete Mahoe Street will have two new raised pedestrian crossings to the Churchill St car-park and Market Street as well as new, wide footpaths designed with wheelchairs, pushchairs and mobility scooters in mind. The corner of Gorst and Selwyn Streets will be more pedestrian friendly, particularly near the playground. More rubbish bins and seating will be installed and street lighting improved. Work will be complete in October.
Waipa District Council's group manager service delivery Barry Bergin said the recent opening up of the Mangaohoi Stream at Pioneer Walk, the rapid rise of the library building and recent completion of more parking spaces were bringing the Te Awamutu hub concept to life.
"The creation of a hub for the town, anchored by the library and potentially a museum, has been a long-term project and it's starting to become real now," Bergin said.
"This recent work has begun to physically connect recreational facilities like the library and Selwyn Park with the town centre."
The new library building itself is expected to be complete and ready for the internal fit-out some time in September, in readiness for opening later in the year. The filigree design on the outside walls is scheduled for installation next month.
The new 1400 square meter library will be significantly bigger than the existing facility which is sized below national standards and is unable to offer a number of community programmes.
Media enquiries, contact Jeanette Tyrrell (on behalf of Council) 027 5077 599
(NOTE: This aerial photograph of the new library was taken on Tuesday, July 12).
