Feedback received - thanks for sharing your views

Ngā mihi nui, many thanks to everyone who took the time to share their views on the draft designs for Prospero Place.

We had 120 pieces of feedback on the designs, and below is a summary of the key themes identified.

Elected Members will be reviewing feedback and the recommended changes to the design at an Ordinary Meeting on Tuesday 12 August. The Decision Report, can be found in the Agenda here from page 40 onwards. It includes all feedback received and an updated design for consideration.

Key theme	Feedback summary	Comments from the Project Team
Accessibility	Accessibility is a major concern, with calls for wheelchair and pram-friendly paths, safe access to the library (easy access from disability parking down lane), and ensuring footpaths are non-slip. People were also keen to ensure any play areas catered to all and are safe.	Accessibility paving was overwhelmingly the most important issue. We are providing a significant amount of connections not previously available onsite. All footpaths will be accessible and above 1.8m wide. Allowing wheelchair access. In addition, all the footpaths will be designed to suitable gradients at detailed design stage. Slip resistance will be dealt with via new surfaces and removal of existing pavers. The play area will have play equipment that does cater to all, however it's important to note this area is for discovery play and will not resemble the type of playground found in our other parks.
Weather protection	Strong support for retaining and expanding covered walkways, especially between Broadway and Miranda Street. Respondents emphasised the need for non-slip surfaces, shaded picnic areas, and weatherproof infrastructure to ensure year-round usability	The covered walkway was 2nd in the 'Really important – must have' category of the “What design features are important” section of the public feedback. The cost for a covered walkway is unlikely to be afforded in the current budget, but can be retrofitted at a later date as part of future Long Term Plans. The Project Team will explore options as the project progresses. Pavement slip resistance is planned to be improved through change of materials from existing terracotta brick pavers to a range of exposed concrete surfaces.
Cultural Identity	Many want the design to celebrate Stratford’s Shakespearean heritage, including: - Retaining the Shakespeare bust - Adding themed sculptures, quotes, or interactive features Stratford Shakespeare Trust expressed interest in collaborating. There’s also support for Māori cultural representation and local storytelling through art and design. Some requests to restore and relocate historic pieces such as the Bubble Fountain from King Edward Park.	The Project Team will continue to work with Iwi and other interested parties to explore cultural identity themes while construction of the physical layout is underway.
Community Use	The space is seen as a potential hub for community events, markets, and performances, provided it remains flexible, inclusive, and welcoming. Ideas for lighting, decorations, and events such as music performances were provided, specifically re Christmas and Puanga. Many people suggest the raised platform shouldn't be near the main highway, but instead at the opposite corner of Prospero Place. Support for temporary/removable stage and open areas for markets and performances. Some consideration given to an area for bike parking especially with E-Bikes becoming more popular.	The community wants an area for gathering and events. However feedback received outlined the proposed location for a raised platform will not work due to noise from the traffic on Broadway. The Project Team has recommended relocating the platform to the north-west corner to mitigate this. The design will allow for bike parking, which could be considered to be upgraded to e-bike charging in future Long Term Plans.
Cost prioritisation	A significant amount of feedback expressed concern about project costs and ratepayer burden. Some feedback on the use of local designers and suppliers needed. Some concerns about maintenance costs (eg, people would love more colourful planting but only if it will get looked after properly)	Procurement was as per Council's Procurement Policy with local designers invited to submit a tender. Future maintenance cost consideration was included as part of the scope of works.
Broadway improvements	Respondents were keen to see the overall look of the town improved (e.g., painting the buildings, hanging baskets), support existing businesses, and ensure the project complements rather than isolates the library, café and gallery.	Changes to Broadway are not part of the scope for this project. However, it's top of mind and Council staff will be identifying future Stratford 2035 projects to address this issue. The project aims to create a new vibrant hub which will further enhance the visitor experience when accessing the cafe, gallery and Library and Visitor Information Centre, while providing a welcoming space in the CBD for customers and businesses to enjoy.