There are some big changes happening down Eva and Leeds streets as part of Wellington City Council’s initiative to improve and revitalise the many lanes of Wellington. The new look, vibrant and attractive environment of Hannah’s Precinct has come from the council’s focus on a renaissance of the capital’s once forgotten laneways. Mayor Celia Wade-Brown says the improvements to these inner-city spaces are designed to make the areas safer, support the local community, encourage artisa
n businesses – such as retail and hospitality – and attract more pedestrians.
“This particular laneway was identified as an area of opportunity in the Central City Framework in 2012, and with the development of residential properties and a bustling community of small independent businesses springing up, we wanted to reflect the neighbourhood’s dynamic qualities from a physical perspective as well.
“There will also be an estimated 55,000 more people living in the capital over the next 30 years, half of whom will be in the central city. It’s important to have an environment people want to live and work in – now and in the future,” adds the Mayor.
Changes to the area include colourful graphics, lighting installations and improved street lighting, planted walls, extra seating and a Hannah’s factory building heritage graphic highlighting the history of the area.
Lorraine Nicholson of First Retail Group, says this project is especially important as it supports the strategy to develop succession amongst the business community.
“We want to encourage more areas where stores, eateries and producers can establish, grow, succeed – then expand from. This is key to the succession strategies we believe are vital in helping city centres truly differentiate their offer.
“Eva and Leeds streets are seeing boutique hospitality and artisan businesses gravitate to the area. We’re expecting more will follow – helping create a robust and vibrant commercial space which fosters success.”
The Hannah name is etched in New Zealand’s retail heritage, being the original factory from which the shoe store chain of the same name was born.
The Eva and Leeds streets area has a long history of occupation as it was located in the vicinity of Te Aro Pā. Shops and residencies started appearing circa 1850, and continued with the 1908 construction of the original Hannah’s warehouse at 13 Leeds Street. Today it is a hub of activity with bars, restaurants, cafes and artisan stores like the Wellington Chocolate Factory and Fix and Fogg.
Nerine Zoio: nerine@insideretail.co.nz
