Strathallan Corner has been clearly identified by both city stakeholders and the wider community as the “heart” of the town. Council has regularly received feedback about this site, including specific concerns regarding the prominence and location of the current toilet block and fountain, and the compromised space remaining for performance/community activities.

The recently endorsed CityTown Masterplan now provides a concept (at pp 88 – 91) that responds to the aim of improving the functionality of the site through reallocation of space. The concept features a more discrete toilet facility relocated to the edge, with retention of the large shade/shelter trees and seating, and the remainder of the corner dedicated to performance space and terraced seating for spectators.

Council has committed a total of $1.6m through the Long Term Plan 2024-34 for the redesign of Strathallan Corner to enhance visitor experience in our town centre, and to support local businesses by creating better conditions for customers (including cruise visitors) to stop, stay and spend.

This figure includes $600k for the demolition of the existing toilet block and its replacement with a smaller, better sited block of 4 stalls (one accessible and including baby change facilities). This budget will be offset by a grant of $300k from the Tourism Infrastructure Fund (TIF) administered by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).

Next Steps – Toilet Block and Corner Redevelopment

Council is seeking an attractive, functional solution at the lowest possible cost to the ratepayer and have therefore determined that a standard unit will be installed rather than an architecturally designed solution.

Example Block in Geraldine (with vinyl wrap option)

We are now seeking feedback on the following indicative styles for exterior cladding, all of which align with the CityTown Masterplan Materials Palette (pp 26 – 27), as follows (NOTE THAT THESE ARE ONLY EXAMPLES, EXACT FINISH MAY VARY):

Vinyl Wrap - Heritage Seaside/Maritime
Vinyl Wrap - Nature / Botanical
Bluestone Cladding
Timber Cladding
Corten Steel (Weathered)

Council is currently working to confirm detailed infrastructure plans for redevelopment of the site with regard to existing services (electricity, sewer, water etc). Following completion of this process, local designers will be invited to tender for the redevelopment of Strathallan Corner, with the chosen supplier preparing a design to achieve the CityTown Masterplan civic space concept.

Community consultation on the design prepared will be undertaken in late 2024 with the final design confirmed prior to Christmas. However, in order to minimise disruption over the busiest season for retail and tourism (including our cruise ship visitors), the construction period for the redevelopment of Strathallan Corner, including the toilets, is currently forecast for March 2025.

Last updated: 20 Aug 2024