True community involvement in revamped Seddon Park

The final plan for Seddon Park’s redevelopment has been completed, with a true community approach taken in designing the space.

Franklin District Council has worked closely with community groups to ensure the revamped park retains the historical character and distinctive plantings of the present park, while opening it up for more users.

Keep Franklin Beautiful, the Franklin Historical Society and the Franklin Rose Society have been closely involved in the design aspects of this important Pukekohe park.

Franklin District Council’s GM Community Facilities Ian Alexander says it is heartening to work with such dedicated community groups to develop the green space.

“We’ve consulted closely with Keep Franklin Beautiful and the Franklin Historical Society to ensure the features of historical significance are being retained and enhanced through the new design, including the Judas tree, plaque and Seddon Memorial Lantern. Franklin Rose Society is advising us on the new and existing roses and Keep Franklin Beautiful on other plantings.”

“Breast Cancer Support has kindly offered to donate a seat for the park, and we encourage other community groups or individuals to do the same.”

The community collaboration for this park will not however end when work is complete. Keep Franklin Beautiful has offered to be a community partner for this park now and into the future, and will continue take a keen interest in it.

The redeveloped park will be a key feature in Pukekohe’s CBD. While key historical features will be highlighted, a modern approach to opening the space up and improving access and seating will encourage more users.

Stage one of the project will start next month and run until October. Works will include tree relocation, new rose beds and shrub borders, new lawn, seating and a fence around the Judas tree.

Stage two, which will start in early 2010, will run in conjunction with stage three of the Pukekohe Town Centre Redevelopment, and will include paving and further seat installation.

To view the final plan for Seddon Park, go to www.franklin.govt.nz.