A proposal to turn the Earsnlaw Park toilets into a "revenue-generating asset" has been suggested by a dining group that owns and operates five Queenstown eateries.
Wai Dining Group co-owner and director Alex Boyes has asked the Queenstown Lakes District Council to consider a "joint venture" in the form of a cafe attached to the existing toilet block at Earnslaw Park.
"Our proposed model is for a shared space, split between community infrastructure and a commercial, leasable area that will provide [the] council with an upgrade to the existing facilities they are seeking," Mr Boyes said in a submission regarding the park's upgrade.
Mr Boyes said that, among a list of benefits, the park's amenities would be increased, as Wai's cafe plan included water fountains and extra seating.
With relation to community events, the cafe would have little effect because "our proposal does not occupy any more space than the current toilet block".
Mr Boyes consulted Simon Arnett, of Walker Architects, who had made concept drawings to further convince the council of the idea's feasibility.
The drawings show cafe diners on the side facing Lake Wakatipu and the upgraded toilets on the opposite side facing Beach St.
When spoken to, Mr Boyes said he "would love" to have a discussion with the council about the concept, but had not heard from it since making his submission last Thursday.
Having had the idea "kicking around for a wee while", he decided to take advantage of the proposed upgrade and emphasise the potential dual functionality of the toilets.
"I think we should take time to look at everything we do now to see if it has potential to earn to help the ratepayers out."
The proposed upgrade of the toilets is due to be discussed at the council's community services meeting on Tuesday.
In the report for the discussion, it is said "the toilets are to be constructed to the same specifications and standards as our existing high-use toilets".
"The toilets are proposed to be stand-alone toilets finished to the equivalent standard of our other high-use toilets such as those in Athol St, Marine Pde and Frankton."
