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·CROWN LYNN QUARTER

CROWNING GLORY: An artist's impression of the future Crown Lynn development in New Lynn.
Newly unveiled plans for a multi-million dollar development in New Lynn include potential for 1800 new homes, 40,000 square metres of business area and a wetland park. The Crown Lynn development will be on the site of the famous former pottery works of the same name between Clark St and Margan Ave. Auckland Council will allocate $5.7 million to the project when it's adopted into the long term plan on June 28. It was welcome news for the area's businesses when they were first told about the project a year ago but they're now concerned about the lack of consultation of the planned expansion, Placemakers operator John Sullivan says. "I wish we knew more about what was happening. The last I heard they were planning medium density housing but beyond that I don't really know what is going on," Mr Sullivan says. "If there is all this new housing in the area it could be great for business." Whau Local Board chairman Derek Battersby says the plans haven't changed much. "After just hearing those concerns I think it is a good idea to invite locals to an information evening and let them know what is happening," he says.
New Lynn Business Association chairman Dinesh Mani says it was a difficult time for the council during the transition in 2010 but the consultation process was positive. "It's true we haven't heard anything in the last 12 months but when we did hear from them the information evenings were done very well," he says. "It's going to be a difficult time for some during the building but in the end it will be worth it for the local businesses." Deputy mayor Penny Hulse says New Lynn is already looking like a modern city. "By the time the council and our partners are finished it will be a jewel in Auckland's crown," she says. "The new park will also be an aptly named gem and I am proud of the council for committing to such a big infrastructure investment." New Lynn has been identified in the long term plan as a metropolitan centre and priority growth area. Mr Battersby says New Lynn is set to become one of the most important town centres for Auckland.