City council reconsidering central library upgrade plans
Wellington City Council looks to have done a u-turn over the future of the Central Library.
The council agreed in October to support using base isolators to upgrade the library building, and included the $187 million project in its draft 10-year plan that comes into effect from July. It was agreed to following public feedback and a decision to breach its borrowing cap as the council looks to fund several major infrastructure projects.
Just months after settling on a plan to upgrade its stricken central library, Wellington City Council is now considering another way to strengthen the earthquake-prone building – one that could save tens of millions of dollars.
The “viscous damper” technology was not included in five upgrade options released for public feedback in October but is now back on the table after Beca, the engineering company that proposed it, complained. Councillors are set to be given an update on its feasibility next month.
Viscous dampers is a system of hydraulic devices that dissipate energy.
Summer on the South Coast
Summer is here again! Fantastic weather beckoning all to get out and enjoy it.
So my request is, if you are cycling, running, walking on our beautiful south coast roads between Breaker Bay and Ohwiro Bay - please be courteous to all road users, even those of us stuck in cars.
The roads are scenic, but they are also narrow, with lots of blind corners. This makes it very difficult for faster moving traffic (cars) to pass slower moving traffic (cycles, walkers, runners). On a bad day this can result in frustrated cars making rash decisions to overtake - putting everyone in danger.
If you are enjoying the coast road on a cycle, and there are cars behind you, please do be considerate and pull over when you have a chance so that they can pass. "Hugging the left" does not really help on a narrow road with blindspots. Stopping is ideal.
If you are enjoying coast on foot, please be conscious of visibility and stay off the road where possible.
If you are enjoying the coast in a car, please be courteous to others - good will spreads, unfortunately so does selfishness.
Lastly - everyone watch out for penguins, they were here first but they don't read Neighbourly or road signs.
Happy and Safe summer everyone.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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75.8% Yes
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22.8% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
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