Council buys strategic city sites

Nelson City Council has bought three strategic central city properties from the Clifford family for future use.

The properties on the corner of Rutherford Street and Achilles Ave are currently occupied by Hunter Furniture, Nelson Hunting and Fishing, plus 22 leased car parking spaces.

Mayor Aldo Miccio says the properties adjoin land already owned by Council in Wakatu Square. Mr Miccio says it’s expected that the income from the leases will mean that there is not expected to be any impact on rates.

“Properties such as these do not come available very often and it is sensible for Council to acquire them if and when the opportunity presents itself.”

Council has been in discussion with the property owners for some time and Mr Miccio says the sale is a great result.

“It will ultimately give Council full access to Wakatu Square and is therefore a major strategic acquisition for the city” Mr Miccio says.

Council paid $3.16 million for the three properties