Neighbourhood case study: Blake St, Ponsonby
- Auckland City
- higher density, mixed use, higher cost urban brownfield
- rated a high sustainability neighbourhood by both Observational Tool and Resident Self-Report Tool
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Key negatives |
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Housing
The area studied is a relatively new (less than 10 years old) development consisting a mixture of relatively upmarket terrace houses and small apartments on a former light industrial site that is very urban in nature. There are several old villas and older commercial buildings within the study area and the area is in an older inner city location.
The housing stock is of extremely high quality and the risk of dilapidation was assessed as being low. The provision of a high number of small apartments (mainly one bedroom) appears to fill a gap in the local housing stock, which is largely dominated by old villas and most buildings had a good relationship to the road, providing passive surveillance.
Walking and public transport
The neighbourhood is very walkable, with a relatively pleasant streetscape. Bus services are easily accessible and frequent.
Amenities and services
The development is close to a wide variety of services, shops and entertainment on Jervois and Ponsonby Roads and the neighbourhood’s character and vibrancy largely feeds off these neighbouring facilities, rather than off facilities within the neighbourhood. The site borders Ponsonby Intermediate School and a primary school is nearby.
The old light industrial units on the northern side of the neighbourhood provide an opportunity for small-scale industries to locate in the area and added a certain charm. Several homes are used for home occupations and some older villas have been converted to commercial premises. Both are an indication of housing stock flexibility.
Public space
It contains no public space and there are very few neighbourhood reserves in walking distance.
Environment
The natural environment has been heavily modified many years ago and there would have been no significant ecological features or habitats present at the time of development of the new townhouses and apartments. The area has a high percentage of impermeable surfaces and some contamination is present due to its previous use.
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Continued Reading
The Neighbourhood Sustainability Framework
- Neighbourhood survey data available
- Valuing sustainable neighbourhoods
- Reports and presentations - Neighbourhoods
Tried and tested: Case studies
- Neighbourhood case study: Hobsonville Point
- Neighbourhood case study: Harbour View
- Neighbourhood case study: Petone
- Neighbourhood case study: Blake St, Ponsonby
- Neighbourhood case study: Christchurch East Inner City
- Neighbourhood case study: Aranui
- Neighbourhood case study: Dannemora
- Neighbourhood case study: Waimanu Bay
- Neighbourhood case study: West Harbour
- Neighbourhood case study: Addison
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Photo: Deborah Dewhirst