The grant would help regenerate the CBD, including the construction of a new two-level commercial and public facility, said Regional Development Minister Kieran McAnulty.
“It will include a visitor facility centered around a new library. Additionally, it will include retail outlets on the ground floor, and both outdoor and indoor recreational spaces,” Mr. McAnulty said.
“Our funding will support Grey District Council and Development West Coast (DWC) as they develop this otherwise vacant land plot. We want to see more foot traffic and community spaces in Greymouth for both economic growth and community wellbeing.”
The building is expected to open to the public in May 2025.
Mr. McAnulty said the funding complemented other recent government investments in Greymouth, including the Pounamu Pathway Experience Centre which received Provincial Growth Fund support. Since 2019, the Government had paid $3.2 billion from eight regional investment funds to support regional economies, he said.
Grey District Mayor Tania Gibson said “In partnership with DWC, and with generous support from Kānoa, the Richmond Quay project marks an important step in the rejuvenation of the Greymouth CBD."
“This joint investment ensures that beyond a modern library, we can also establish commercial and retail space to breathe new life into the town. Together with major projects, like the Pounamu Pathway development and the new Noel Leeming building, the CBD is certainly at a turning point,” Mrs. Gibson said.
DWC Chair Renee Rooney said the support for the Richmond Quay project, in collaboration with Grey District Council, not only demonstrates confidence in the West Coast’s potential but would also provide significant opportunities for local contractors.
“The project will inject vibrancy into the heart of Greymouth, which will spread throughout the region, enhancing its appeal as a place to live, work, and visit.”
DWC chief executive, Heath Milne, said: “it nicely compliments other major investments into the region, with both the Mawhera / Greymouth Pounamu Pathway hub and Dolomite Point redevelopment only months away from opening.”
“We’re confident Richmond Quay will become an important community hub that will help activate more commerce in the region.”
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