A central Nelson shopping complex, which has been empty for nearly a year after cladding issues left it earmarked for demolition, is set to get a new lease on life as a retail and hospitality precinct.
More than 20 retailers and commercial tenants were forced to vacate the Morrison Square shopping complex last year after engineering assessments revealed issues with the building’s cladding system.
Originally named Fashion Island, the site at 244 Hardy Street was purchased by ACC for $22.7 million in 2008.
It was announced in May that Scott Construction had bought the site and had plans to redevelop it.
The project is being led by Morrison Square Development Co, and one of the directors, Justin Candish said it was a once in a lifetime opportunity to be part of the rejuvenation of central Nelson.
“It would have been devastating for the city to see this prime city location as a gravel carpark for 10 years or so. Instead, our vision is to create a cornerstone city destination to help take Nelson city into the future,” Candish said.
The company has worked with Irving Smith Architects, Arthouse Architects and landscape architecture firm Meadow to develop a multi-use precinct called MORRISON, which includes retail, hospitality, office spaces and boutique accommodation with a piazza in the centre.
They had considered including apartments but wanted to cater to both locals and visitors so had proposed a boutique hotel for the eastern side of the precinct, Candish said.
“We have seen how boutique hotels have made a difference to cities, attracting a particular type of traveller. We are still at the feasibility stage, but our assessment so far is that it would be a great addition to the heart of the CBD.
“The concept is for it to be quite different to the other accommodation offerings in Nelson, and as we are not planning extensive hospitality and retail within the hotel, guests will be encouraged to shop and eat elsewhere,” he said.
The aim was to draw new brands, businesses and people into the city, and it was estimated 300 people would work in the precinct, Candish said.
The buildings were structurally sound and most would be remediated, with the former Columbus café building in the centre of the site and the building on the eastern side to be demolished, he said.
Works are due to start before Christmas this year, with the entire development estimated to take two years.
By Samantha Gee of rnz.co.nz
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