St Albans centre stage with ceremony for new community hub

A site blessing and sod-turning ceremony has marked the start of preparations for work on the St Albans Community Centre.

Contractors are due to be on-site by early November.

The new single-storey building will be on the site formerly occupied by the earthquake-damaged centre – a block of land that runs between Colombo Street and Caledonian Road.

Council Head of Community Support, Governance and Partnerships John Filsell says the new centre meets a range of community needs and will be available to various groups.

“Shared spaces build a stronger community, and the new centre provides an ideal environment for closer connections,” Mr Filsell says.

“As a community hub, it will provide a base for many groups that cater to all ages and interests.

“At present, many local groups are operating out of makeshift spaces around St Albans.

“With the new centre a step closer, they can soon be under one roof and continue to provide support to the local community, along with plenty of activities and opportunities.”

Community groups are already looking forward to utilising the new hub, with several indicating they plan to move from their present premises.

The 400-metre-square building, which will have a modern timber and glass facade and clean, sleek lines, is due for completion next year.

It includes a large hall and several meeting rooms for public use, as well as a kitchen and an office.

A central gathering space will open out on to a deck to the north, delivering light and warmth through large windows and glazed doors.

A car park adjacent to the building will provide off-street parking from Caledonian Road while bike racks will be available on both road frontages.

A working party made up of Papanui-Innes Community Board members and community representatives from groups including the St Albans Residents Association and the local business association agreed on the final floor plan.