The community development agency, which helps people in Addington connect with other residents, has been granted the lease for a site at Cornelius O’Connor Reserve on Harman St, where its new home will be built next year.
Manager Cherylan Davies said the construction of the new building will be funded by the city council and the agency will pay $1 per year in rent throughout the 20-year lease.
She said it will be positive for Addington.
“For Addington to actually have something that is considered an asset is like a big celebration . . . we are really delighted we’ll actually have a building and we’re delighted that the community will have another place where they can gather.”
The agency has been operating out of the Anglican Church of St Mary the Virgin in Addington for about seven years.
While it appreciated the church’s help, Mrs Davies said the location has put some people off using the agency’s services.
“Quite a few people don’t feel comfortable coming into the church . . . we have a high migrant community as well, and we would like to reach out more actively to that community, so there are a few barriers with where you have your organisation,” she said.
The new headquarters will attract a diverse range of people in Addington.
“Being in the park, in a purpose-built building, it’s neutral. It’s a neutral, safe place and the purpose of Manuka Cottage is to break down barriers whatever they are, whether it’s social, individual, poverty or whether it’s because of ethnicity or sexuality. It’s about breaking down barriers and coming together as a community.”
