Family friendly focus for Thomson Park

A proposed $400,000-plus makeover for New Brighton’s Thomson Park is open for community consultation.

Under the redevelopment, the Christchurch City Council proposes to revitalise the area, boosting safety and accessibility and making the park more user friendly with the addition of several features.

The draft plan includes a new full basketball court and picnic area, along with a sealed car park. 

An upgrade is planned for Thomson Park.

“We aim to enhance this popular space, ensuring the park and facilities best meet community needs in a safe and open environment,” Christchurch City Council Community Parks Manager Al Hardy says.

“We welcome the local community’s feedback and suggestions as the reinvigoration of New Brighton and the surrounding areas steps up.”

A new entrance further along Marine Parade and the installation of security barriers to prevent night-time use are key elements of the safety upgrade. New post and cable fencing is also proposed, along with the replacement of several trees that are in poor condition.

Feedback on the proposed upgrade will be sought from Monday, 6 August.

Local residents are also welcome to attend a drop-in information session at New Brighton Library on Monday, 13 August between 4pm and 6pm.

The consultation period closes on Monday, 27 August, with a staff report going to the Coastal-Burwood Community Board for a final decision in September-October.

The Council hopes to start work at Thomson Park by February next year.