Ideas for Sanson site continue

NO decisions have yet been reached in regard to the future of a prime location in Sanson (pictured), at the intersection of State Highways 1 and 3 and formerly occupied by the Junction Hotel, that was purchased by the Manawatu District Council two years ago.

Community Services Group Manager, Brent Limmer, said more work would be carried out on concepts for the site before design and funding proposals were presented to the community for comment.

“Ideas will be firmed up over the next few months with the council governance team and the option/s to become part of next year’s Annual Plan process.”

Mr Limmer said council had long recognised the strategic importance of Sanson, given its location at the junction of the major state highways and its proximity to New Zealand’s primary air force base at Ohakea.

“Sanson is an important link and ‘gateway community’ to the rest of Manawatu, Palmerston North and southern North Island,” he said.

A scoping study last year resulted in a number of possible options for the property, including an i-SITE and a combination of commercial activities.

Mr Limmer said council had also set aside $75,000 in the current financial year for further planning around design concepts and the development of a business case and this was currently underway.

“The community will certainly have an opportunity to express their opinion via the Annual Plan process on what options come out of this phase and whether or not they support the proposals,” he added.