Nelson’s Morrison Square is set for a major transformation, with new owners unveiling plans to turn the city-centre complex into a multi-use precinct featuring a public square, boutique hotel and new dining laneways.
The site was purchased earlier this year, with new owners Justin Candish, Craig Dennis and Jason Everett of Morrison Square Development Co presenting their vision for the first time at the Uniquely Nelson AGM tonight.
The site was set for demolition after former owner ACC found an issue with the cladding and decided to pull it down. Justin, through his business Scott Construction, was bidding to win the job to demolish it but decided it would be a waste and instead negotiated to buy it.
Justin says extensive research and consideration went into the design, with “people” and “rejuvenation” central to every decision.
“We see this development as a once in a lifetime opportunity to be part of the rejuvenation of the city,” he says. “It would have been devastating for the city to see this prime city location as a gravel carpark for 10 years or so. Instead, our vision is to create a cornerstone city destination to help take Nelson city into the future.”
The new Morrison precinct will feature a community square, boutique accommodation, a vibrant food precinct, and upgraded office and retail spaces.
“The questions of why people come into a city, and what motivates them to stay awhile, were key questions the concept designs needed to provide solutions for,” says Justin.
Two Nelson-based architectural firms, Irving Smith Architects and Arthouse Architects, have partnered with landscape designers Meadow to bring the vision to life.
Candish says the square would be the “focal point that brings it all together”.
“By hosting food, music, and cultural gatherings in the square, the heart of Morrison will become a community stage and a place to gather. In effect we are giving the space back to the city.”
The project will respect the precinct’s heritage, including the former Field, Newmans and Morrison buildings, while modernising other structures.
Work is set to begin before Christmas, with completion expected in two years.
Key elements include a food hall inspired by Christchurch’s Little High, rooftop dining, and refurbished laneways linking to Selwyn Place and Piki Mai / Cathedral Hill.
“It is designed to be a place for everyone, and we are really, really pleased with where we have landed with our plans,” says Justin.
Uniquely Nelson manager Simon Duffy said the development is “super exciting” for the city.
“I believe this will not only be great for the businesses in the immediate area, but for the whole city,” he says. “Long summer nights listening to locals perform music, plays, dance, orchestras by candlelight—it’s a space for so much creativeness. Yes please!”
People can follow updates at www.thenewmorrison.nz.
