By Torika Tokalau of Local Democracy Reporting
Residents of an Auckland beach community are being encouraged to have their say on a community hub in the area.
Beachlands, South of Auckland, may soon have a new hub for its growing local population.
The proposed hub will be located in the Beachlands Memorial Hall, providing access to library services, arts programs, and council customer services.
Franklin Local Board chair Angela Fulljames said public feedback for the hub was open, as part of Auckland Council’s Annual Plan consultation.
Fulljames said they hope the hub would become a space for youth-led initiatives.
It would also serve as a vibrant, welcoming space where residents could access essential council customer services, explore creative opportunities and connect with locals, she said.
“We recognise the hub is a service and place local people have needed and wanted for some time,” Fulljames said.
“As signalled in our Local Board Plan 2020 and 2023, the board are enthusiastic to progress delivery of Beachlands Community Hub.”
She said with consultation on Auckland’s Annual Plan now open, there was an opportunity for locals to provide feedback on their proposed plan.
The Annual Plan 2025/2026 consultation runs until March 28.
It asks communities for feedback on investment and funding plans for 2025/2026, including how council funds funding major events and destination marketing, and priorities for the Franklin Local Board which includes the Beachlands Community Hub.
Once community consultation on Auckland’s Annual Plan has been completed, the final decision to invest in the Hub will be made by the board in June 2025.
Fulljames said several projects are underway across the Franklin region.
“We encourage you to take the time to share your feedback and have your say.”
Proposals for the Franklin Local Board area 2025/2026 include delivering council community service hubs like libraries, arts and customer services in Beachlands and Clevedon.
It also includes extending and improve services to isolated communities like Āwhitu, Ōrere, Glenbrook Beach, Paparimu and Kawakawa Bay
Progress delivery of sports and recreational plans and provision of additional grant funding for Karaka Sports Park and Te Puru Community Centre was also top priority.
The Beachlands community can have their say at the Mobile Library Bus drop in session at 37 Wakelin Rd, on March 22, from 9am to 12.30pm
Residents can also give feedback online at akhaveyoursay.nz/ourplan.
Select ‘Franklin’ at Question 4 to give feedback on the Beachlands Community Hub proposal.
