Talking about a new town hall

ŌTOROHANGA District Council is planning a new town hall to replace the old one demolished in the 1990's and has announced a feasibility study to define the use, purpose and location of the proposed “multi-purpose community facility”.

The community expressed a desire for a new town centre during the 2021-2031 long-term plan process town and concept plan discussions started in 2022, council chief advisor Ross McNeil said in his report to the community board last week.

The town concept plan process focused on a culture and arts centre but the study to be undertaken by Veros development management would take a broader view, Ross said.

Funding from Lotteries has been sought for the work, with a decision expected in December.

“However, the priority placed on this project by the board and council means it is proceeding in any event,” Ross said.

“The timing will align with the development of the draft 2024-34 long-term plan, so the council has opportunity to hear from partners, stakeholders and the community and reflect the agreed outcomes in the adopted LTP.”

Location options being assessed include:

• The Otorohanga Club as an events facility
• A new building constructed on the block of four council-owned properties at 88 and 120 Maniapoto and 15 and 17 Lawrence Streets
• A new building on the former town hall site – now the village green/library site on Maniapoto St (including whether a new building incorporated the library or the existing library building is extended)
• Using the Ōtorohanga District Council building’s ground floor meeting spaces
• Any practical combination of the above options.

A project working group comprising mana whenua, elected member and staff representatives has been convened to provide guidance throughout the project.

The study process will identify community needs for activities and spaces and consider any wider benefits or opportunities a new facility might offer – for example the delivery of social services; conducting information /training courses; wellbeing clinics.

In May this year, ŌDC agreed the support house could use both properties at 120 and 88 Maniapoto Street, rent free until at least June 2026.

If the feasibility study confirms that a multi-purpose centre is viable, the council might include the project in the next long-term plan.  

This did not mean the facility would definitely go ahead, as significant further work would be required before any final decision to build was made, Ross said.

“These projects typically take several years to reach the build stage, primarily because it takes that long to finalise designs and ensure all the necessary funding is in place.”