Opening date announced for Te Whare Whakatere
Mid Cantabrians will get to unwrap a $56.75 million Christmas present.
Ashburton’s new library and civic centre building is set to finally open on December 18.
Construction of Te Whare Whakatere began in early 2021 with an original completion date for the end of 2022.
It is now set to open a year late, and will end up being over its $56.75 million budget.
The delays in the project were caused by Covid-related strains on the workforce and supply chain.
“We’re really excited to get to this point, because it’s been a tricky build at times with Covid and the shortages of staff and building materials," council chief executive Hamish Riach said.
“But this building is resilient and will serve our community well for 50 years or more, so we’re delighted.”
The public library will close on November 26 and reopen in the new building on December 18.
All other council services will be available during the three-week transition period, with a skeleton staff operating from the old administration building on Baring Square West up until close of business on December 14.
An official opening ceremony is planned for early 2024.
Meanwhile, the demolition of 255 Havelock St is scheduled for the end of October and is expected to take about a month to complete, Riach said.
The building will make way for a public car park to service Te Whare Whakatere.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59.6% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.4% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
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