Nick Smith urges Nelson protesters to keep up pressure over $88m civic hub

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith has joined a growing chorus of residents challenging the council’s preferred plan for a new civic hub, urging people to make their objections heard through formal democratic channels. About 100 protesters gathered outside Civic House on Monday, braving strong winds and carrying signs opposing the proposed $88 million development on Church Street. Their message was that councillors had overlooked public sentiment by backing what critics see as the most expensive option during a cost-of-living squeeze. Smith, who also opposed the Church Street proposal, spoke to the crowd and said he had heard repeated questions from residents about why the council would choose such a costly plan. He also said concerns had been raised about how many local businesses could be affected, adding that he was unsure whether councillors had properly considered that issue. Rather than urging the crowd to stop at the protest, Smith encouraged residents to submit their views, make deputations and petition councillors before the project reaches its next stage. He said he would use his role as mayor to help ensure a final decision reflected the majority view. The council’s vote last Thursday was to investigate a purpose-built library, community hub and civic facilities on Church Street. That decision came despite consultation results showing 62.5% of the 1,417 submissions favoured redeveloping Civic House. The Church Street option received 24.5%, while 13% backed a new building on Collingwood Street. A petition opposing the Church Street plan had gathered 1,225 signatures by Tuesday morning, according to the report. Smith and councillor Matty Anderson supported the Civic House option. Deputy mayor Pete Rainey’s proposal won majority backing, while a separate attempt by councillors Tim Skinner and Lisa Austin to pause the project was defeated. The proposal is not yet a final spending commitment: the estimated cost, described as more than $80 million, would still need approval through the council’s long-term plan process. Smith told protesters all 13 elected members had Nelson’s interests at heart, while promising to do what he could within his powers as the debate continues.