Future options are being explored for Point Chevalier’s Lions Corner on Raymond Street
A decision on the future of Point Chevalier's Lions Corner at 13-17 Raymond Street is a step closer, with five options being considered by the Albert-Eden Local Board.
The local board took ownership of the land of the former Lions Club building in 2021, and over the years it has experienced vandalism, deterioration, ongoing maintenance costs, and health and safety issues.
Albert-Eden Local Board Chair Margi Watson says there’s a wide range of issues to ensure the best long-term outcome for the community, with engagement now open on the site.
“It’s great we’re able to move forward with a decision on the future for 13-17 Raymond Street. Over the past few years, we’ve seen the site deteriorate, but we are now working towards a decision.
“Over the next few months, we’ll work through what the best steps are for 13-17 Raymond Street. We also have the opportunity for the community to be involved in feedback as well, with consultation open and drop-in sessions available. ”
Albert-Eden Local Board options for 13-17 Raymond Street.
There are five options for the site:
Open space
This option results in the building being removed, and the site converted into open space. This option could be one of the simpler, lowest-cost and lowest-risk options, and may be able to be delivered sooner than some of the other options being considered.
Ground lease
This option involves removing the building and obtaining expressions of interest from community organisations to develop and operate a new facility on the site through a ground lease. This approach could support community-led activities and services without significant council investment. However, it would depend on finding a suitable organisation with the funding, capability and long-term viability to deliver the project.
Refurbishment and new lease
This option would involve retaining and refurbishing the existing building so it could be used by the community in the future.
Sell and reinvest
This option would involve removing the existing building, working through the statutory processes required to sell the site and then reinvesting any net proceeds into other priority projects across the local board area.
An example of what this could look like would be using the funds for the future library and community centre. This option would provide the local board with funding for projects with greater community needs.
New community venue
This option would involve removing the existing building and constructing a new Auckland Council-owned community facility on the site. A new purpose-built venue could provide flexible space for community activities, events and services and be designed to meet modern accessibility and operational standards. However, it would require significant funding and would likely take longer to deliver than some of the other options.
Next steps, public input and timeline
The Albert-Eden Local Board is seeking community feedback on the five options before making any decisions on the future of the site.
Feedback will be considered alongside relevant assessments, funding considerations and local board priorities
The local board will consider the findings and determine the next steps for Lions Corner at a future business meeting in 2026.
The next stages and associated timeframes will depend on the option selected.
To find out more about the proposals for Lions Corner Raymond Street, and to talk to local board members and the project team, visit the have your say page here.