Plimmerton gets new sign

Plimmerton is to receive a new welcome sign – but not anytime soon.

As part of the village plan programme for 2012/13, $225,000 is allocated for continuing the Ara Harakeke pathway from Steyne Ave to Plimmerton Domain, including a new footpath, fencing, bridge widening and car parking.

The budget also includes provision for a new sign just before the railway lines but this is still going through consultation, Porirua City Council’s village programming manager Ian Barlow said.

‘‘It has been a slow process and it’s because we not only want to include the Plimmerton township itself, but consult with the people of Hongoeka.

‘‘The entry off State Highway 1 is important to both communities so we want them to work closely together on this – there will be different perceptions from both as to what appropriate signage will be.’’

Mr Barlow envisages a sign similar to the one at the north end of Pukerua Bay, which depicts a skink and is of ‘‘architectural interest’’, though the new sign may not be erected until 2014/15.

There will be no subsidy from NZ Transport Agency is it will not be sited on SH1.

Plimmerton Residents Association chairman Colin Bleasdale said an entrance sign has been discussed for some time. It is important to get ‘‘continuity’’ between all signs in the suburb and there is plenty of consultation still to occur, he said. ‘‘We want something that is consistent and creative.’’

Other village projects are coming up in Pukerua Bay, Waitangirua, Cannons Creek, Titahi Bay, Takapuwahia, Pauatahanui and Ranui.

A spring festival has been suggested for Waitangirua, to encourage residents to get involved.