The building that houses the Salvation Army store and an art gallery in Carterton has been severely damaged in recent extreme weather events.
Damage includes flooding through the roof, walls, and light sockets, which has in turn damaged the office, hallway, and carpets.
Now Carterton District Council, which owns the Holloway St building, has announced it will publicly consult on how to proceed, due to the considerable maintenance required to bring it up to a reasonable, operational standard.
The building was purchased by the council in 2005.
In 2009, the council consulted during its 2009-2019 Long Term Plan on the sale of 29 Holloway St to support building costs for the Carterton Event Centre.
However, in 2015, the council decided to retain the building until future governance outcomes for Wairarapa had been determined, as this was during the voting period on the amalgamation proposal.
Since the recent weather damage, temporary repairs have been made, but these have identified further issues, which may result in flooding spreading to a neighbouring property.
Figures to repair all damages and prevent further occurrences have not been finalised but are estimated to be upwards of $100,000.
The council will therefore consult with the public on what it should do next, with the preferred option being to sell the building.
The consultation is expected to take place by June 2023.
The affected tenants have been notified and will be supported by council throughout this process.
Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air.
