The current Elma Turner Library building is too small to meet the current needs of the Nelson community. Photo: Nelson Weekly / Max Frethey
Residents are once again being asked about a new library after Nelson City Council decided to scrap plans to borrow $17.6 million that had been earmarked for a $46.3m new facility on the Maitai River.
However council proposed that $200,000 still be used to rescope the goal of a new community facility, including a new library at a different site, that overcomes concerns with the previous plan about the cost and location.
Mayor Nick Smith has previously said spending an estimated $46.3m on a new library facility was "unaffordable" in the current economic environment.
Concerns were also raised about the proposed riverside location of the new facility when king tides and coastal inundation occurs in the future due to sea level rise.
Spending on the new facility was put on pause in November, however, the city still needs a new library.
"The current library is an ageing building and also too small for our community's needs," said Andrew White, council's group manager community services.
"Library management often have to turn down requests from different groups looking for a place to meet."
Council is proposing to abandon work on the original plan for a new riverside library to investigate other options in alternative locations. Photo: Supplied / Nelson City Council
Parts of the Elma Turner Library building date back to 1973 when it was a car sales office.
But the most significant hurdle reared its head in June 2022 when the building was found to be earthquake-prone and was then closed.
It is progressively reopening in stages as $1.4m is being spent on strengthening works.
"These improvements to the facility are about getting it reopened and buying some time," Smith said.
"There's no magic for this stuff. Just like if you've got an old car or old house, eventually it gets to the point where replacement is the best option."
That is where the proposed $200,000 for investigative work comes in.
It will allow further opportunities for engagement and communication on the project, and time to clearly define its scope.
Council said this approach was consistent with the decision to strengthen the Elma Turner Library building because there was now time to consider cheaper, alternative options.
However, the trade-off is that it will delay when the new facility will be completed.
Nelsonians can submit on the proposals for council's annual plan, including the plan for the new library funds, by filling out the survey at nelson.govt.nz, or by writing to or calling council to give their thoughts.
Mayor Nick Smith and other elected members will also be available to answer annual plan questions each Saturday during April at the Nelson Market.
Local Democracy Reporting is Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air
