Sandra Hazlehurst and Craig Riddiford say they are proud of their city and the work they do independently and collaboratively. Photo / NZME
Amid the unveiling of some exciting announcements about events and activities planned for our Hastings city centre this week, along with a decision to make parking free for the month of July, the issue of safety was raised.
It’s not new to Hastings, and it’s not unique to Hastings – personal safety concerns in public spaces are experienced throughout the country and the world.
Hastings is no different to any other city in New Zealand, in that the issue has been highlighted with emptier streets resulting from Covid-19 lockdowns and ongoing adjustments to the way we work and live – more people working from home, people hesitant to go into public spaces.
Much of this is beyond our control, but what we can control is how we respond to these changes, which have undoubtedly highlighted issues that were already there.
It’s been a topic of much discussion between council and the Hastings City Business Association – how do we get more people into town, how do we support downtown businesses to thrive, what can we do to address safety concerns?
The decision to bring in free parking for the month of July was one initiative, requested by the business association and CBD businesses.
It is a step in the right direction to encourage people into Hastings CBD during quieter winter months to shop, dine and experience all the city has on offer.
Hastings…