Arrowtown’s ‘olive leaf’ centre proposal faces opposition

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by PETER OWENS

A protest group has been formed in opposition to a proposal to build an “olive leaf” design community building next to the historic Church of St Patrick in Arrowtown. 

A model of the suggested “olive leaf” centre next to St Patrick’s Church.

A model of the suggested “olive leaf” centre next to St Patrick’s Church.

A neighbour of the church, Wayne Hulls, has formed a group called “NO LEAF GROUP”, which is shortly to be incorporated.

The opposition comes after group of local parishioners, headed by architect Fred van Brandenburg, wanted to build a contemporary building beside the church (NZ Catholic, August 21).

They are applying to the Queenstown Lakes District Council for a resource consent to do so. This would give an opportunity for anyone who opposes the building to make a submission, written or oral to the council before such a consent was granted.

The proposed building is designed like an olive leaf and Mr van Brandenburg said it would have “minimal visual impact” at eye level. He explained that this is because the new building would be sunk 2.2 metres below the church building level.

“The only portion of the new building that would be above ground level would be the stone-clad roof,” Mr van Brandenburg said.

He added that because natural materials would be used in the construction of the building “would make it appear to emerge out of the surrounding terrain”.

The building would be used for parish and community events. The roof would be shaped like an olive leaf and appear to be free-standing.

Mr van Brandenburg believes the building design complies with guidelines set out in the local district plan.

He has addressed about 40 people on the matter at two public meetings held in October and also believes most the locals approve of the project.

But Mr Hulls said he and his group will fight the proposal. He has already signed a petition opposing the project, which has been presented to Bishop Colin Campbell of Dunedin.

Mr Hulls and his supporters believe the project does not comply with the design guidelines set out in the district plan.

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