Sizeable land holding in western suburbs comes to market after half a century

For the first time in 50 years, a freehold 7998sq m site has come to the market in Churchill Drive, an important arterial route linking the suburbs of Khandallah, Ngaio, Crofton Downs, Chartwell, Wadestown and Wilton. And agents say it’s pushing developers’ buttons.

The site is at the highest point of Churchill Drive with privately-owned Bowen Hospital (which is currently being significantly enlarged) immediately to the south, and the Churchill Drive shopping centre to the northern side.

Owned by the Brethren Church - who are currently seeking alternative, larger premises in wider Wellington - the landmark site with its large, windowless hall and auditorium, security fencing and bush clad surrounds is creating a buzz in developer circles given that land of any useful size in this area is extremely hard to find – and what is available is usually landlocked.

“Here’s a premium parcel of land and buildings with direct access at two points on to Churchill Drive, the key feeder road which is the only alternative vehicular route to SH1 linking the western suburbs,” says Mark Hourigan of Bayleys Wellington, who is marketing the property with Grant Young and in conjunction with Chris Gollins of Colliers International.

“The ‘Centres’ zoning under the WCC District Plan opens up the possibilities for the future usage of the site and could include high density housing, rest home, retail, commercial and health providers. This is blank slate development material the likes of which just doesn’t see the light of day very often.”

Purchase by another church group is not being ruled out as it works well for that purpose. However, Mr Hourigan predicts that any future development of the site would be keenly sought-after upon completion by residential or commercial users given the convenience of the location and a lack of alternative growth sites.

Purpose-built by the Brethren Church in 1967, the building centres on a 924sq m auditorium-style column-free space with theatre seating ascending outwards from the centre. It has the capacity to seat around 1800 people. Comprehensive amenity areas are to the north and south of the main assembly hall, and there is a carport for upwards of four vehicles. Sealed and marked car parking areas for 147 vehicles are on three sides of the property.

Tenders close on 22 September with the vendors reserving the right to sell prior.