Masterton Prepares for Major Upgrade: Shoppers Encouraged to Support Local Retailers

Central Masterton is poised for a significant transformation, set to begin in early March 2024. The project, which follows the Golden Shears and Shearing World Championships, aims to enhance the town’s infrastructure while encouraging community support for local retailers throughout the construction period.

A spokesperson for the Masterton District Council confirmed that while specific details are still being finalized, plans are in place to maintain pedestrian access to retail outlets during the upgrade. “Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the project, and the community is encouraged to keep shopping local while the work is happening,” the spokesperson noted.

To support both retailers and shoppers, various initiatives will be introduced, including workshops, advertisements, signage, window cleaning, and giveaways. Talks are also ongoing about a potential “shop and win competition” in collaboration with Brent Gare and the team at Mediaworks, although details are yet to be determined.

The upgrade will focus on Queen Street and includes critical infrastructure enhancements such as the replacement of an aging water main, road resurfacing, and footpath reconstruction. These improvements are intended to enhance safety and accessibility for pedestrians. Construction is projected to span six months.

Contractors will undertake a comprehensive overhaul of the footpath area, removing and replacing existing features including bins, benches, and trees. The work will be executed in three sections from Jackson Street to Park Street, with the final schedule to be confirmed.

Road closures will be communicated through the council’s official website and the Antenno app. Additionally, free public parking maps will be accessible from participating stores and the council office, ensuring that shoppers can navigate the area with ease.

Maseina Koneferenisi, the Council’s group manager of infrastructure and assets, emphasized the importance of this upgrade for the town’s future. “We’ve been listening to our business community about their vision for Queen Street. The recent business summit initiated discussions about local aspirations as part of our Our Future Our Story project and the Masterton Retail and Commercial Strategy. This upgrade provides an opportunity to actualize some of those ideas,” Koneferenisi stated.

Ongoing discussions with retailers will focus on on-street upgrades designed to cater to customer needs and enhance the overall appeal of Queen Street. The council aims to create a vibrant environment that benefits both businesses and visitors.

As Masterton gears up for this essential project, community engagement will play a key role in its success. Residents are encouraged to actively support local businesses, ensuring that the heart of the town remains lively and accessible even during the construction phase.