The Porirua City Council has opened consultation for the temporary closure and redevelopment of Cannons Creek Park, a significant move aimed at enhancing the area with stormwater and wastewater upgrades.
The proposed redevelopment is part of the broader Te Rā Nui – Eastern Porirua Development Project, a collaborative effort between Porirua City Council, Kāinga Ora, and Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira. The council seeks community feedback on the temporary closure and proposed easements affecting parts of Cannons Creek Park and Bothamley Park.
The anticipated closures will span approximately 18 months, with the council actively coordinating with sports clubs to ensure alternative spaces are available during this period. Given Cannons Creek Park’s popularity for sports, this measure is essential to minimise disruption.
The redevelopment plan has been shaped by community input from consultations led by Te Rā Nui in 2021 and 2022, alongside additional workshops held last year. Key features of the upgrade include the construction of a wetland at the park’s northern end, improved stormwater and wastewater systems to enhance the Kenepuru Stream catchment and Te Awarua-o-Porirua Harbour’s water quality, and several other enhancements.
Other planned upgrades include a new shared path network, improved pedestrian connections, enhanced sportsfield drainage, landscape planting, and new park furniture to create a more user-friendly environment.
Porirua Mayor Anita Baker expressed her enthusiasm for the project. “This redevelopment will make the park more resilient and turn it into an even more usable space. I am really looking forward to seeing the finished result,” says Mayor Baker.
The project, funded by Kāinga Ora, is scheduled to begin this summer with the wetland development. Detailed proposals are available at all Porirua City libraries and the Customer Service Centre at 16 Cobham Court. Residents are encouraged to participate in the consultation process and share their feedback on the council’s website: www.haveyoursay.poriruacity.govt.nz