Station Village on track for $2m upgrade
The Station Village is undergoing a $2 million upgrade that should see it become the premier entertainment precinct in Lower Hutt.
The revamped facility will feature a new music venue, a craft whisky and beer bar, a traditional sports bar, Italian food and a South American barbecue.
When the three-bar complex went into liquidation in September 2015, locals rushed to Facebook to comment on the loss of a much-loved music venue.
Dale Coffey was one of many upset punters. ’’How many venues are left in the Hutt Valley now to safely have a drink or two and listen to a live act? Probably not many...the Hutt has a very poor night life’’
Over the years it hosted numerous musical acts from Jimmy Barnes and Kora, to Dragon.
Wellington Hospitality took over the lease late last year, promising a major upgrade to the rundown complex.
Group director of hospitality Vince Lombino is aware of how popular the venue was to generations of locals.
It will be the return of the music venue that will cause the most excitement.
The upgrade includes a new stage in the courtyard and a grassed area. A sound shell will help reduce noise.
Although Lombino is not discounting rock bands, he said the emphasis will be more on music styles that a range of people would enjoy.
About 60 staff would be employed, including 12 chefs operating out of a large new central kitchen.
Lombino believes it would soon become a regional destination. The new facility, called the Station Gardens, would be fully open by November.