Whau Ward, comprising Avondale, Blockhouse Bay, New Windsor, New Lynn, Green Bay and Kelston deserves a better development plan.
While population in these suburbs is growing, many of these suffered gross neglect.
Raj Mitra, who is contesting for a seat in the Whau Local Board & Portage Trust elections, quoted Avondale as an example.
He said that its proud heritage has not been properly preserved and that residents have to cope with inadequate public transport, sporting and recreational facilities and activities for the youth.
Development Plans
“Auckland Council is considering three options including development of Racecourse Parade, Avondale Racecourse and Highbury Triangle. The Racecourse Parade block is a piece of land in the heart of the Town Centre, providing redevelopment potential. Avondale Racecourse is a landmark that could be redeveloped to support regeneration of the Town Centre. Highbury Triangle, occupying 25,000 square metres can be used for extension of the Town Centre and retail space.
“If elected to the Local Board, I will strongly advocate implementation of at least two options for development of Avondale,” Mr Mitra said.
Kelston and New Lynn also need proper development plans, he said.
Mr Mitra said that Blockhouse Bay is growing and deserves an expanded village to preserve its character. A new Community Centre would be invaluable to cater to the diverse population, especially since it is close to New Windsor, Green Bay, New Lynn and Avondale.
“I believe that the Council’s rate rise should be within inflation rates. It would be our duty to ensure that the budget allocated by the Council to Whau Local Boards is adequate to maintain the safety and security of the community, development of infrastructure, beautification of suburbs and improvement of community facilities,” he said.
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Raj Mitra
