Masterton Retailers Prepare for Upgrade as Community Encouraged to Shop Local

Plans are underway for a significant upgrade in central Masterton, with construction expected to begin in early March 2024. The initiative aims to enhance pedestrian access and encourage support for local retailers during the renovation process. Details about the project will be shared as the start date approaches, but the Masterton District Council has already confirmed that maintaining pedestrian pathways to shops is a top priority.

A spokesperson for the council emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses throughout the construction period. “Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the project and the community are encouraged to keep shopping local while the work is happening,” they stated. In addition to ensuring access, the council plans to offer various forms of support to retailers and shoppers, including workshops, advertising, signage, window cleaning, and giveaways.

The council is also exploring the possibility of a “shop and win competition” in collaboration with Brent Gare and the team at Mediaworks. While plans for this initiative are still in the early stages, it aims to foster community engagement during the construction phase.

Project Details and Community Impact

The upgrade on Queen Street will involve essential infrastructure improvements, such as the replacement of an outdated water main, road resurfacing, and the reconstruction of footpaths. These enhancements are designed to improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians. Construction is set to commence after the Golden Shears and Shearing World Championships, with an expected completion timeline of six months.

Contractors will remove existing footpath features, including bins, benches, and trees, to facilitate the upgrades. The work will be carried out in three sections, spanning from Jackson Street to Park Street. The final schedule will be published on the council’s website, which will also provide updates on road closures. Free public parking maps will be available at participating stores and the council office.

Maseina Koneferenisi, the council’s group manager of infrastructure and assets, highlighted the project’s dual objectives of upgrading essential services while collaborating with local businesses to enhance the CBD’s appearance. “We’ve been listening to our business community about their vision for Queen St. The recent business summit kicked off conversations about local aspirations as part of our Our Future Our Story project and the Masterton Retail and Commercial Strategy,” she explained. “This upgrade gives us a chance to bring some of those ideas to life.”

Ongoing Collaboration with Local Retailers

The council plans to continue discussions with local retailers regarding on-street upgrades, aiming to incorporate features that cater to customer needs and improve the overall experience of visiting Queen Street. The initiative represents a significant investment in the town’s infrastructure, ensuring a secure water supply for the future while fostering a vibrant shopping environment.

As the project progresses, the council urges the community to remain engaged and support local businesses, reinforcing the importance of shopping local during this transformative phase. The upgrade not only promises to enhance the physical landscape of Masterton but also aims to strengthen community ties and support for local commerce.