The agreement will advance Panuku’s urban regeneration programme in Henderson, boosting population and business in the town centre significantly, while enabling development around the train station and sparking further revitalisation.
Waitakere Ward Councillor Linda Cooper says the sale is expected to contribute to local economic growth while ensuring access to the council is retained at a local, community level.
“There is vast potential in Henderson to increase the number of people living and working near the town centre - with this we project a natural increase in economic activity in the area, boosting local businesses, communities and the area as a whole.
“I’m pleased and relieved the Civic Building is being kept in public ownership. This building serves the community, providing a place where the local board and community connect, meet and celebrate special occasions. We think of it as our Town Hall.”
The agreement includes two office buildings (the Administration Building and Central One) and adjoining land located at 2-4 and 6 Henderson Valley Road.
It excludes the Civic Building (including the Council Chamber), which will remain as a community hub for shared use.
Also excluded is the Japanese garden, land next to the Henderson Train Station that is to be used for the City Rail Link and a new internal road extension and greenway connecting the train station to Henderson Valley Road, Opanuku Reserve and Corban Estate Arts Centre currently under construction.
Panuku has worked closely with Auckland Council to ensure this move aligns with their corporate property strategies. The Service Centre and Henderson-Massey Local Board will remain in Henderson, moving into the Civic Building in due course.