Gore’s streetscape stands to be improved by the million-dollar Streets Alive project which will soon be launched by the Gore District Council.
The council has received $900,000 of Government funding from the NZ Transport Agency to put towards the project.
The council would also contribute $100,000 towards the project.
Gore Deputy Mayor Bronwyn Reid said the project was a chance to look to the town’s future
“This will be a community-driven project,” Mrs Reid said.
The project would begin towards the end of this month with a public consultation phase.
The council would ask the public for their ideas and opinions on how to improve the streetscape.
This would include community group consultation, a public drop-in session and a survey.
She encouraged people to have their say.
“We want to hear from residents about ways we could make our town more people-friendly.
“We really want the community to . . . be part of the vision.”
This was an opportunity to create the future in the way people had done when the town was first settled, she said.
Horse-and-cart had once been the mode of transport but people looked to the future in building the streets and townscape.
The Streets Alive project aimed to make the town a place with “vibrant” public spaces.
However, safety was also a concern.
The project aimed to improve the streets for older people and people with disabilities.
Streets Alive would be a year-long project.
After the public had their say, changes would be made on a trial basis.
More feedback would be sought before any permanent changes were made.
The funds were given as part of a national push to make New Zealand streetscapes safer and more enjoyable.
Gore was the first small town in New Zealand to receive this funding, she said.
“We’re in a privileged position.
“Watch out for more information over the coming months about how you could get involved.”
