History behind Tory St makeover
Lower Tory St will soon reclaim some of its historic identity, thanks to the student concept chosen for Wellington’s Re-imagine Tory Street design competition.
A group of three landscape architecture students from Victoria University have won the competition with their project It’s Tory Time, based on the area’s history.
Their winning concept was inspired by the area’s former landmark of Te Aro Pa, which supported the people of Te Atiawa and Ngati Ruanui.
In an attempt to celebrate the land again, the drawing features a structural pavilion, platform seating, and planting.
Nearly one dozen concept plans were submitted by the university students for the design contest, which was held in partnership with Wellington City Council.
Students met with businesses and residents, and ran a drop-in session at Courtenay Central, where shoppers and passers-bys could share their thoughts and ideas.
Concepts included everything from swings and hammocks, to performance spaces, and made from tension cables.
The impact of last year’s Kaikoura earthquake and the city’s proposed film museum and convention centre presented a real opportunity to transform lower Tory St, Lambton ward councillor Nicola Young said. trees
‘‘We’re exploring temporary design ideas to trial ways of making this street more usable and attractive for the large number of people who use it every day.
‘‘Tory St is one of our oldest streets, in the heart of old Wellington.
‘‘It’s important to keep it vibrant, especially with Te Aro’s large population increase, so I am really delighted this project has captured the imagination of Wellingtonians.’’
People were asked to vote at the concept exhibition in Courtenay Central or through the council’s Facebook page.
More than 2000 people voted over five days, with It’s Tory Time taking top place.
The students will now work with university staff to develop that concept. Following a technical review by council officers, a final design will be agreed on before construction begins later this year.