Library and Council Chambers options being considered

Published: 29 November 2019

Napier City Council has undertaken a thorough investigation of building options for Napier Library.  Three preferred sites have been identified with a refit or rebuild on its original site at the top of the list.

“The Civic building on the corner of Hastings and Station Streets is earmarked as a hotel redevelopment. It’s a real positive to have our main central library near it. Having a quality hotel development next to a new library will revitalise this area, which has seen some decline since the Council and Library had to relocate due to earthquake safety concerns,” says Mayor Kirsten Wise.

The future of the rest of the block remains uncertain, with the remaining tenants in Dalton and Vautier House due to vacate in the next two years.

There may be an opportunity to repurpose the buildings in this block to house Council staff who are currently spread across three temporary sites. NCC is currently undertaking full due diligence on these buildings to see if they are financially feasible, fit for purpose, and provide added benefits to the central city as a hotel, library and Council Chambers precinct..

“These are huge, once in a generation decisions for Napier and we must get it right for our community,” says Mayor Wise. “That means considering the options carefully – and ensuring that the people of Napier are fully involved in the decision-making process."

Consultation on the preferred sites will be undertaken early in the new year.

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