Leamington is getting a more open, walkable green space between Lamb Street and Roto-O-Rangi Road.
Waipā District Council started work this week to tidy the site, add new planting, create informal walking routes and maintain the area in a way that keeps its natural look and feel.
Community Services manager Brad Ward said the project would make better use of the land that was previously used for grazing.
“This is a great project with a positive outcome. We are opening a town belt space so more people can use and enjoy it, providing access to open space for the new housing to the east of the reserve,” he said.
“The concept is to keep it simple. We are not adding lots of hard landscaping. Instead, we are creating a place people can walk through, with grassed areas and informal paths connecting to the wider neighbourhood. It will improve local connections and make the site more accessible for nearby residents.”
Three pedestrian access points will be added on Lamb Street and Roto-O-Rangi Road. This work will include removing or reducing some fencing, preparing the ground for planting and grass growth, and creating mown paths for easy access.
Some areas will be left to grow longer for grass harvesting, supporting a lower-maintenance and more sustainable approach.
The project is expected to take six to eight weeks, weather permitting.