Letter sent to Herald after ARC consideration of what to do with Queens Wharf. ARC voted to support a Cruise Terminal and general cargo, and limited public access.... I argued for a mixed use development there, integrated with opened up ferry terminal infrastructure, and significant public open spaces at the end. I also presented images showing how ARC had failed the public in consenting the monstrosity on Princes Wharf....
"...I am very dissappointed by Auckland Regional Council’s limited approach to the Queens Wharf opportunity. At the confidential meeting I advocated for the broader public interest and an urban design led approach. But to little avail.
ARC’s involvement in the redevelopment of other Auckland waterfront opportunities has been a public disaster.
It was ARC’s responsibility to balance public and private interests on Princes Wharf. It is a disgrace that this opportunity has such impoverished public spaces.
ARC’s poor appreciation of urban design and the qualities of good waterfront open space is exemplified by the plans it agreed for Wynyard Quarter which are being considered now. Those plans shoehorn public waterfront amenity between maritime industry and highrise private developments. And this to optimise revenue for ARC.
ARC's ability to provide for public interest values is compromised by its need for cash to fund public transport, and its limited understanding of good urban design.
Auckland’s CBD and its waterfront must be optimised for the enjoyment of the people of Auckland, and for visitors. Queen Street and Britomart urban design approaches show the way. This thinking needs to cross the street and illuminate plans for Queens Wharf and the whole Auckland waterfront...."
This letter was unpublished.
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