11.01.2013 For ResourceConsent NT€¦ · The Eel Pond was an oxbow of the Maitai River. 1842. ......
Transcript of 11.01.2013 For ResourceConsent NT€¦ · The Eel Pond was an oxbow of the Maitai River. 1842. ......
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11.01.2013 For Resource Consent NT
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Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 4
2.0 Location ..................................................................................................................................... 4
3.0 Brief historical timeline ............................................................................................................. 5
4.0 Landscape Character ................................................................................................................. 7
4.1 Landform ....................................................................................................................... 7
4.2 Vegetation ..................................................................................................................... 7
4.3 Built Form ...................................................................................................................... 8
4.4 Water Bodies ................................................................................................................. 8
4.5 Landscape Character Zones .......................................................................................... 9
5.0 Landscape Amenity and Cultural Values................................................................................. 11
6.0 Suter Gallery Vision ................................................................................................................. 14
7.0 Architectural Improvements ................................................................................................... 14
7.1 Bridge Street Interface ................................................................................................ 14
7.2 Eel Pond and Queens Gardens Interface .................................................................... 15
7.3 Albion Square Interface .............................................................................................. 15
8.0 Landscape Design Approach ................................................................................................... 16
9.0 Landscape Design Objectives .................................................................................................. 16
10.0 Landscape Design .................................................................................................................. 17
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10.1 Bridge Street Interface .............................................................................................. 17
10.2 Eel Pond and Queens Gardens Interface .................................................................. 17
10.3 Albion Square Interface ............................................................................................ 19
10.4 Planting ..................................................................................................................... 20
10.5 Ecological Improvement ........................................................................................... 21
11.0 Landscape Character and Amenity Impacts ......................................................................... 22
11.1 Generally ................................................................................................................... 22
11.2 Bridge Street ............................................................................................................. 23
11.3 Eel Pond and Queens Gardens.................................................................................. 23
11.4 Albion Square ............................................................................................................ 24
12.0 Proposed Mitigation Measures ............................................................................................ 24
12.1 Integrated Mitigation Measures ............................................................................... 25
12.2 Temporary Mitigation Measures .............................................................................. 26
13.0 Conclusions .......................................................................................................................... 27
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
Wraight + Associates have been engaged by Jerram Tocker Barron Architects and Warren and
Mahoney’s joint venture on behalf of the Nelson City Council and the Suter Gallery to prepare a
landscape concept and Landscape Assessment report for Resource Consent.
This report provides a landscape effects assessment of the proposed Suter Gallery building and
landscape development works. The report outlines the landscape character of the existing site and
landscape context; and assesses the possible impacts of the proposed development on landscape
character and values.
The proposed entails an increase in internal floor space for the gallery, and landscape treatments which
integrate the planned architectural interventions sympathetically into the site, reinforcing the
relationship the gallery site has with the adjacent Queens Gardens and Albion Square, and enhancing
the identity of the Suter Gallery as a Civic place.
This report has been prepared by Wraight + Associates Ltd. Directors Nicole Thompson, Martin Bryant
and Megan Wraight are registered Landscape Architects of NZILA.
2.0 LOCATION
The Suter Gallery is located within the Central City area, east of the defined ‘city centre’ (Nelson Central
City Strategy, NCC. August 2009 p2).
The Suter Gallery is sited on a 2948m2 wedge shaped parcel of land at 208 Bridge Street, Nelson. The
site is bounded by Bridge Street to the north, Albion Square to the west and Queens Gardens to the east
and south.
The existing collection of gallery buildings cover a footprint of approximately 1443.6m including the
Cafe, excluding the existing deck area.
The site is approximately 500m east from Trafalgar Street and 150m south of the Maitai River.
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Figure 1 Location Plan 1:2000@A4.
3.0 BRIEF HISTORICAL TIMELINE (Source: Landscape Conservation Plan Queens Gardens Nelson for detailed timeline.)
Pre 1841. The Suter Gallery site was included in the Great Wood of Whakatu; a seasonal
resource for local Iwi. The Eel Pond was an oxbow of the Maitai River.
1842. Land parcels including the current Suter and Queens Gardens sites were designated for
civic and commercial purposes.
1844. The Suter Gallery site was given to the Nelson School Society which established a Day and
Sunday school known as ‘Campbell’s School’.
1864. Nelson’s first Athletic facility was established on the current Queens Gardens Site.
1887. Ground works commenced on ‘Queens Gardens’ pleasure grounds in preparation to
commemorate Queen Victoria’s 50 year reign. The Eel pond was drained, cleared of Raupo and
its banks cut to a smooth line.
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1889. Bottom of the Eel Pond was sealed with tar during a drought.
1873. Carp and Egyptian geese placed in and on the Eel Pond by the acclimatisation society.
1892. Planting commenced within Queens Gardens including land between Campbell’s School
and the Eel Pond.
1896. Nelson School Society offered their land and property to the Suter Art Gallery Board of
Trustees “for the promotion of art”.
1899. The Suter Gallery was erected facing east so that the most pleasing aspect of the building
could be afforded from the Queens Gardens.
1905. Fernery planted western side of Queens Gardens.
1906. Concrete edging strip laid around Eel Pond.
1923. Rose garden planted around the Priapus Fountain.
1963. Suter Gallery agrees to women’s conveniences being erected on their land.
1977‐79. Removal of Campbell’s School building and new theatre and cafe additions to gallery
erected. (Original gallery retained).
1984. Paved seating area constructed opposite the Suter Café.
1992. Conservatory like structure alteration to the Suter Gallery.
2003. The Suter Gallery Trust Board announced an ambitious redevelopment proposal which
was not realised.
2007. The Suter Gallery and also the Queens Gardens were registered with the New Zealand
Historic Places Trust.
2007. The Huangshi Chinese Garden opened on the site on the Gardens’ historic Caretakers
house.
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4.0 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER
In order to assess the landscape character of the site and immediate context, environmental indicators
appropriate to the assessment of landscape character will be analysed.
4.1 Landform
“The landscape character of Nelson City is unique and dominated by physical landforms. The city is
located at the head of Tasman Bay behind the Nelson boulder bank and is flanked by a number of ranges
and hills rising from coastal foothills up to the city boundary along the ridge of the Bryant range. The
urban area is principally located on the narrow coastal margin, the floodplain of the Maitai River and the
coastal foothills” (Nelson City Council Regional Policy Statement 1997: Landscape Values and Natural
Features p 61).
The site is located on the Maitai River flood plain, 1.1km inland from the coastal edge. The Suter Gallery
site sits on soils classified as the Appleby Gravel formation of well sorted gravel with layers of sand, silt
and clay (GNS, 1998. Geology of the Nelson Area). The site is generally flat, with gradual falls east
toward an oxbow pond known as the Eel Pond within the Queens Gardens.
4.2 Vegetation
Vegetation in the context includes scattered trees and shrubs planted around detached buildings.
Vegetation is both native and exotic, like much of the vegetation in Nelson’s city centre. Street tree
planting in the site’s adjoining streets is generally sporadic and discontinuous. The biggest
concentrations of vegetation are along the Maitai banks, 150m north of the site, and within Queens
Garden. The latter has a major effect on the character of the subject site. Queens Gardens’ vegetation is
rich, diverse and mature, and forms an important adjacency to the Suter Gallery.
Vegetation on the Suter Gallery site is concentrated between the existing building and Eel Pond edge to
the east and south. The majority of specimens are native but there are a several exotic species. Tree
plantings between the existing Suter Gallery and the pond edge are closely centred and random. In
some cases overcrowding has occurred with species becoming tall and thin. In some cases this
overcrowding has had an adverse effect of the form and health of the plants. Aging specimens planted
close to the site’s listed heritage buildings also present a risk to the structure and increase maintenance
requirements of the building. ( Source: ‘Vegetation and the Suter Art Gallery’ a report by Ian Bowman
28.01.2011). The planting along the pond edge is dense and is integrated with the setting and plantings
of the Queens Gardens (Queens Gardens Conservation Plan, P 74). There is, however, a scarcity of
understorey planting: much of the ground plane is bare and as a result is potentially prone to erosion.
The vegetated pond edge allows for filtered views of the Queens Gardens and vice versa back to the
Suter Gallery from Queens Gardens. The canopy of the vegetation contributes to the sense of visual
containment, a valued experience, from within the Queens Gardens.
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4.3 Built Form
The Suter Gallery sits at the western edge of the city centre amongst a scattering of eclectic low rise
detached institutional buildings and associated car parks. The buildings are framed by Nelson’s cardinal
street grid. The streets are wide with kerbside parking and verge footpaths. The campus style layout
includes built form that is characteristically discontinuous with varying setbacks of street frontages. All
of the buildings are oriented in accordance with Nelson’s street grid in an orderly manner Some are
large footprint industrial‐like structures. Others are clusters of smaller scale winged buildings with
additions, all of which that have been connected and articulated around courtyards and vegetation.
The Suter Gallery fits into the latter category.
The existing Suter Gallery is the sole building on the site. In general terms, the Suter complex comprises
the Category II listed Original Gallery building (formerly known as the Bishop Suter Gallery that was built
alongside the Matthew Campbell School in 1899) the Suter Theatre and cafe added in the 1970’s
between the Original Gallery and Eel Pond edge and a collection of building additions to the south and
west that range in age and quality.
4.4 Water Bodies
The Maitai is the dominant water body in the context of Nelson. It is located 150m north of the site. Its
soft edges and serpentine alignment contrast to the otherwise orderly nature of Nelson’s street grid and
orthogonal built form. The Eel Pond within Queens Park bordering the Suter Gallery site is a modified
natural oxbow formed when the Maitai River created a meander prior to the European settlement of
Nelson.
The Eel Pond is a dominant and significant feature within the Queens Gardens site. It is a physical
reminder of the site’s natural history as well as the site’s post‐European evolution. No longer directly
connected to the Maitai River, the Eel Pond is fed via the historical mill race at the pond’s southern end.
The pond’s level is maintained by an overflow at the northern end which discharges into Nelson’s storm
water system. This reticulation is required to maintain pond health. A fountain jet on the pond’s eastern
arm provides further aeration and movement. The pond intermittently suffers from algal blooms and
pondweed buildup, particularly over the summer months. The pond is largely devoid of hydrophilic
vegetation, however, NCC have planted reeds and sedge species in close proximity to the Chinese
Garden development. The pond and its margins are habitat for a range of fauna species including eels,
carp, ducks and other aquatic birds.
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4.5 Landscape Character Zones
The triangular shaped parcel of land that describes the Suter Art Gallery site comprises three distinct
characters that correlate with the character of site’s immediate context:
Bridge Street
Eel Pond edge and Queens Gardens
Albion Square
Bridge Street
Bridge Street characterises the site’s northern
extremity. It is an urban street that
accommodates a mix of Government and
institutional buildings, with low rise
commercial and residential development.
Within the street’s legal boundary, and in
proximity to the Suter Gallery, there are no
street trees planted. Planting within adjacent
properties does however, contribute to an
overall impression of greenery along the street
particularly to the east. Bridge Street consists
of two lanes of traffic and car parking lanes on
either side of the street immediately adjacent the Suter site. An asphalt footpath approximately 3.5m
wide runs along the Gallery’s northern boundary, this foot path is fringed by low level planting along the
Suter’s Theatre façade.
The building’s northern façade along Bridge Street provides a mostly positive interface to the street.
Visual amenity is provided by the detailed heritage façade of the original Gallery building along with
garden beds accommodating plantings of New Zealand native species. A small seating area adjacent the
Gallery’s main entrance affords good opportunities for casual gathering and respite given its northerly
aspect and separation from the street. The combination of age and poor quality materials reduces the
potential of this space to contribute to the Gallery’s civic stature. The Gallery’s main entrance is off the
eastern edge of the seating space. It is a modest, at‐grade low‐key entry, that understates the civic
nature and cultural significance of the Gallery. East of the main entry the Bridge Street boundary is
dominated by the theatre building’s relatively blank timber and brick facade.
Figure 2 Suter Gallery from Bridge Street
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Eel Pond and Queens Gardens
The site is defined on its eastern boundary by
the Queens Gardens’ Eel Pond and Queens
Gardens proper beyond to the east, both the
Suter and Queens Gardens sites are managed by
Nelson City Council. Although the Eel Pond is a
remnant of the site’s natural history, since
European settlement it has been highly modified
from its original natural state. The pond is
generally formed by a small concrete upstand
around its edge; there is a small section of
timber retaining wall in the vicinity of the
Gallery’s existing cafe complex. An un‐edged
gravel path informally traverses the space
between the pond edge and the existing building complex. Informal plantings of mixed tree and shrub
species fringe either side of the relatively flat path. Maintenance of planted elements within this area of
the site appears to be minimal, there is very little in the way of under planting. Several trees require
pruning to remove deadwood/broken or scrappy branches and the gravel path appears to have
migrated in areas.
The Suter’s eastern façade, along the Eel Pond edge, is currently dominated at the northern end by a
cafe extension and its associated deck space. The cafe walls and ceiling are primarily constructed of
mirror glass with a steel frame, when viewed from the opposite side of the Eel Pond, the walls appear
dark and recessive, reflecting the canopies of surrounding trees. The roof structure, however, reflects
sky so appears very bright and almost white in comparison. The deck is a rudimentary timber structure
set on piles accommodating outdoor tables and seating. The building fabric of both the cafe and deck is
timeworn and unsophisticated which compromises the enjoyment of both people using the facilities and
those who view them from the Eel Pond edge. During cafe hours these facilities take advantage of the
amenity provided by the Eel Pond/Queens Garden location. Conversely, they contribute an active
populated edge to Queens Gardens, providing opportunities for casual social interaction and passive
surveillance of the pond edge walk. South of the cafe, the Suter comprises a series of sub‐standard
building extensions that emanate ‘back of house’ character and offer little in the way of engagement
with the gardens environment.
It is evident that the Suter Art Gallery and the Queens Gardens have a close and symbiotic relationship
that has lasted over many years. The original Gallery building was orientated toward the Eel Pond and
Gardens, establishing a strong connection between education, culture and nature. The Eel Pond almost
entirely sits within the Queens Gardens legal boundary, but it contributes a high degree of amenity to
the Suter site and the character of the Suter’s eastern boundary is inextricably linked to the pond. The
strip of landscape that forms the south‐eastern edge of the Suter site contributes to the character,
ecology and amenity of the Queens Gardens, as both a backdrop to the pond and providing a loop path
around the pond.
Figure 3 View from Queens Gardens across the Eel Pond to the Suter Gallery complex.
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Albion Square
Albion Square forms the western boundary of
the site and is currently managed by the
Department of Conservation. Along its
interface with the Suter site, the Square
comprises an existing asphalt car park that sits
between 400mm – 1200mm above the levels of
the Suter site and a relatively flat lawn which
extends south of the car park. The lawn area
contains a number of mature exotic trees and
at its southern end significant heritage
buildings remain intact. The Suter site along
this boundary is currently defined by an asphalt
driveway that is edged by a small embankment
of mixed poorly maintained vegetation. The southernmost extremity is terminated by a gravel parking
area that is edged by several rudimentary timber post and rail structures.
The Suter’s western façade comprises the heritage Original Gallery at the north end and a collection of
less remarkable building accretions to the south. This façade is largely devoid of openings and provides
little in the way of engagement with the adjacent driveway access or the Albion Square site to the west.
Much of the Suter Art Gallery’s internal activity is not visible from the outside given the minimal external
openings and windows. There are some exceptions to this at the Gallery’s main Bridge Street entry and
the Cafe’s entry and deck alongside the Eel Pond, however, there are few opportunities currently for
engagement between the Gallery’s interior and exterior environments.
5.0 LANDSCAPE AMENITY AND CULTURAL VALUES
The values, policy and objectives relevant to the Suter Gallery site are recognised in the following
current planning documents:
The Resource Management Act 1991
The Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) requires Councils to recognise and provide for the
protection and management of landscapes. While sections 6 + 7 of the RMA are relevant to all
development, sections that are of particular relevance to the proposed improvement project are:
The protection of historic heritage from inappropriate development (Section 6 (f));
The maintenance and enhancement of amenity values (Section 7 (c)); and
The maintenance and enhancement of the quality of the environment (Section 7 (f)).
Figure 4 Suter Gallery’s west facade viewed from the Courthouse across Albion Square
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Nelson Resource Management Plan
Zoning and Overlays
The Suter is zoned Open Space Recreation (OSR), and is part of a wider scheduled site HP8 that includes
both the Queens Gardens and the Suter Gallery as being within the same scheduled site. The majority,
but not all, is reserve land vested in and administered by the Council (Policy DO16.1.1(Zones) and OSd.1
and OSd.2 (Description OSR Zone)). HP8 is a scheduled Horticultural Park under the NRMP, centred on
the Queens Gardens.
The OSR zoning “contains areas of open space which are of high value to the community primarily for
open space and active recreation activities” – OSD.1 NRMP
Policy OS1.1 states “Open space and reserves provide general amenity to the city and its environs and a
special level of amenity to the local area where they exist. This special amenity may be in the form of
views (as other properties overlook or face into reserves or recreation grounds), access to facilities
within these areas, and general amenity through large trees, open space and landscaping.”
Heritage Buildings on the Suter Site
Appendix 1 in the NRMP lists heritage buildings, the importance of their protection being ranked from A
(the highest) to C. The original Suter Art Gallery building is a Category A heritage building in Appendix 1.
The original Gallery is to be retained within the improvement project, and the proposal does not
therefore trigger Rule OSr.63 (Removal or Demolition of Group A and B Items).
The construction of a new building on the site of a Group A or B heritage item is a controlled activity
under Rule OSr.62.2.
Heritage, Landscape and Local Trees/Woodlands
Appendix 2 in the NRMP shows there as being three “local” trees on the Suter site, but all have now
been removed.
There are no specific “Heritage” or “Landscape” Trees identified on the Suter site under the NRMP.
Queens Garden has a large number of “heritage” trees and “heritage woodland” (W28). The heritage
woodland is shown partly on the Suter site between the footprint of the existing building and the Eel
Pond. The W28 Woodland category, however, does not have any associated rules or objectives defined
in the NRMP, as a result there is no regulatory outcome arising from this classification. The NRMP’s
existing rules regarding Heritage Trees can only be applied to individual trees, not woodlands, therefore
only the provisions relating to Local Trees apply.
Landscape Conservation Plan Queens Gardens Nelson
The Queens Gardens Conservation Plan states that the Gardens are “valued for its Victoria‐era character
and the planted and fixed feature elements which have survived from its late‐nineteenth century
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design.” Features added in the early twentieth century have complemented this style and contribute to
the Garden’s significant heritage value. These include:
Mature exotic plantings which continue to illustrate the somewhat idiosyncratic nineteenth‐
century plant palette;
A number of inherited qualities and designed experiences that reflect Victoria‐era design
practices and sensibilities; and
A unique collection of important, nationally significant, commemorative and ornamental fabric.
“Based on the historic and physical investigation of the Queens Gardens the setting of the Queens
Gardens is considered to include the strip of land and airspace between the Suter Art Gallery and the Eel
Pond based on visual, social , cultural and historical relationships and functions between the two sites”
(Queens Gardens Conservation Plan p74)
Although removal of vegetation is a permitted activity under the NRMP, the ‘woodland’ character of the
land bordering the pond edge is identified as making a ‘significant contribution to the heritage
significance’ of the Queens Gardens within the Queens Gardens Conservation Plan. The Conservation
Plan notes that the canopy of the Suter’s planting contributes to the ‘strong sense of visual
containment’ (QGCP p.73) experienced from with the Queens Gardens. Similarly the canopies of large
mature trees beyond the Suter site within Albion Square perform as ‘borrowed’ landscape when viewed
from within the Gardens.
It is highlighted within the Queens Garden’s Landscape Conservation Plan that information regarding the
significance of the gardens to local iwi is to be sought as part of the consultation process. Information
from the consultation process will also be of relevance to the Suter Gallery site.
Nelson Urban Design Panel
The design team presented building and landscape proposals for the Suter Gallery to the NCC and Tasman District Council’s Urban Design Panel, December 17, 2012. The landscape proposal for the presentation comprised a review of the site’s existing conditions and conceptual diagrams. Landscape details had not been fully developed at the time of this presentation, but the proposals were met with support: “Overall we consider that the design proposed is suitable for its location and purpose but that there are still opportunities for the building to improve its relationship with the surrounding environment. This site is unique and the context in which it sits on all three sides is important to the building’s future success and recognition.” [source: NELSON CITY COUNCIL / TASMAN DISTRICT COUNCIL UDP MEETING REPORT Dec 17, 2013] The landscape proposal has since been further developed in response to the panel’s report recommendations regarding improving the site’s relationship with the surrounding environment and providing space for gathering at the front entry. Landscape drawing RCL1.10 Site Amenity Integration Plan proposes possible future landscape elements for the integration of neighbouring properties, whilst
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drawing RCL1.00 Site Plan provides detail regarding the entry reconfiguration which now includes a flat gathering space at the Suter’s main entrance.
6.0 SUTER GALLERY VISION
“It is envisioned that The Suter will be a regional arts centre that presents visual arts and creativity in its
many forms, through exhibitions, theatre, shop and a destination cafe. The Suter building is a hybrid of
contemporary and heritage features – revealing The Suter’s origins as one of New Zealand’s first
purpose built art galleries. The Suter’s Collection and its building, fit‐out and landscaping reflect the rich
art traditions of the Nelson/Tasman region set in the context of New Zealand and international art
history. A regularly changing programme of inspiring and challenging exhibitions and projects feature in
The Suter’s exhibition galleries” – Design Statement, JTB+Warren and Mahoney
7.0 ARCHITECTURAL IMPROVEMENTS
The proposed development is to retain the original 1899 Gallery and the 1970’s Theatre, but all other
built fabric, annexes etc which are generally substandard or not to current code are to be removed. New
accommodation is to be constructed which will enlarge the footprint of the Gallery by approximately
27% excluding proposed outdoor deck areas. REFER ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS AND ARCHITECT’S
DESIGN STATEMENT.
The form of the new Gallery will be an elevated, single storey adjacent to Bridge Street and the Queens
Gardens edge. The Albion Square edge accommodates a double storey extension. The Gallery buildings
will extend closer to the pond edge (east and south), and also extend toward Albion Square to the west.
This increase in size does mean that vegetation within the proposed footprint of the structure will
require removal. Where decks protrude out from the building in close proximity to existing trees deck
construction will be undertaken in such a way as to minimise disturbance or damage to the tree either
above or below ground.
7.1 Bridge Street Interface
The Bridge Street interface will be composed of the retained Original Gallery and Theatre buildings
supplemented with the addition of a new central atrium and main entrance foyer projection that sits
approximately 1.4m above the existing external ground level. The foyer accommodates the Gallery’s
main entry on its western wall and its northern face is mostly glazed affording a high level of visibility
into and out of the Gallery. The facades of both existing buildings will be largely unmodified, however,
the foyer will facilitate the revelation of more of the Original Gallery’s facade at its eastern end and
cover up more of the Theatre’s west facing wall. The entry sequence into the Gallery has been
reconfigured into a series of generously scaled accessible ramps, steps and gathering spaces to facilitate
an elevated entry point into the building. The scale and prominence of the proposed entry sequence
will add a modest dimension of theatre and ceremony commensurate with the Gallery’s regional
cultural and civic significance.
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7.2 Eel Pond and Queens Gardens Interface
The Gallery’s Eel Pond façade is composed of the existing Theatre Building’s brick and timber structure
augmented by a series of new stone and glazed building extensions. The new façade elements facing the
Eel pond will be of grey stone allowing the façade to be visually recessive. The new cafe space will be
located in the approximate location of the existing cafe, this will have a glazed facade. Glazing to the
exterior of the new addition within view of the gardens will be predominantly facing south, with some
smaller glazed penetrations on eastern walls. The glazed elements become more and more visible as
one moves to the south. The south facing glazed elements will be visible from across the Eel Pond at
angles that are oblique to the pond edge. The exterior materiality, colour, glass facades and form of the
building will allow the new structure to visually recede into the existing planting with the objective to
minimize the visual impact on the character of Queens Gardens. Although the footprint of the gallery
development is larger than the existing building’s footprint, the finger‐like sections of new building
accommodate significantly more visually permeable openings than the current building, affording a
closer relationship between activity of interior and exterior environments.
The new building’s geometry and orientation to the Eel Pond’s edge articulates a series of new
landscape spaces in which the relationship between Gardens and Gallery is intended to be further
embedded and integrated through the establishment of ‘garden rooms’. The garden rooms are
discussed in further detail under the Landscape Design of this assessment. The building’s
reconfiguration will establish a new view corridor, through the building’s visually permeable central
atrium space, affording a visual and physical link between Bridge Street and Queens Gardens. The
outdoor terrace that forms the southern termination of the central atrium space will further add to a
revitalised relationship between the Gallery and Gardens, providing prospect over the pond edge walk
and allowing patrons of both the Gallery and Gardens to enjoy the benefits of passive social interaction.
The most visible part of the new addition from Queens Gardens will be the new Café. Its visibility is
facilitated by the existing clearing at the pond edge. The new cafe will extend amenity to users of
Queens Gardens. The cafe and associated deck terrace have prospect over the pond edge walk providing
passive surveillance and will, in turn, benefit from the enjoyment of views across the Gardens and Eel
Pond. The cafe provides an additional link between the Gardens and Gallery both in terms of physical
access and visual connection.
7.3 Albion Square Interface
The Gallery’s façade along the Albion Square boundary includes the retention of the Original Suter
Gallery building at the north end and a metal clad extension running south. The new extension is
approximately 2.4m closer to the Albion Square boundary than the existing building. The building’s
height draws upon the datum set by the Original Gallery building’s roof line. The new façade
accommodates glazed penetrations on both lower and upper storeys which will afford a greater degree
of visual engagement between activity inside and outside of the building.
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8.0 LANDSCAPE DESIGN APPROACH
Landscape has had a long association with art and is an important inspiration and subject of art in New
Zealand. This is particularly relevant in relation to the Suter given the Gallery’s garden setting and that
the painting collection is largely populated by landscape based works.
The landscape design for the Suter Gallery site has been carefully orchestrated to visually integrate the
Gallery development into its existing landscape and cultural setting, celebrating the cultural contribution
the Gallery itself offers. Critically, the Suter landscape proposal seeks to acknowledge, embed and
augment the landscape relationship with its highly valued cultural neighbours and its history.
Key to this is the retention of established site connections; retention of the majority of the site’s existing
canopy; establishment of supplementary planting that is in keeping with the site’s primarily native
character; and the re‐establishment of the Gallery’s historically strong physical connection to Queens
Gardens and the Eel Pond. Furthermore, this landscape proposal develops connections between the
Suter and its broader context; expresses the civic stature of the Suter through composition and selection
of landscape materials; and provides a forum within which the educational/cultural aspirations of the
Suter Gallery can be expressed.
9.0 LANDSCAPE DESIGN OBJECTIVES
1. Amenity. Improve site amenity through engagement with and acknowledgement of site context
– Queens Gardens and the Eel Pond, Albion Square and Bridge Street
2. Circulation. Upgrade existing site circulation to make it more engaging, permeable, comfortable,
legible and safe
3. Vegetation. Retain and argument existing tree vegetation along the Eel Pond edge – the
woodland
4. Historical connection. Elicit where possible the site’s historical context – cultural (both Maori
and Pakeha) and natural histories
5. Connectivity. Develop / improve links to the broader environment e.g. Nelson City Centre
6. Civic Role. Express the Suter Art Gallery’s civic importance to the city of Nelson
7. Environmental responsibility. Integrate the principals of low impact urban design where
appropriate
8. Landscape experience. Capitalize on the opportunity to create new external environment visitor
experiences that links directly to the Suter Gallery’s curatorial and educational role
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10.0 LANDSCAPE DESIGN
The landscape works relating to the Suter Art Gallery’s development will be contained within the site’s
legal boundary, refer RCL1.00 Site Plan, for the purpose of this resource consent application. Possible
future amenity improvements are noted on the drawing RCL1.10 Amenity Improvement Integration
Plan in relation to neighbouring sites; however, these elements do not form part of the intended works
covered by this assessment report.
10.1 Bridge Street Interface
The new entry sequence, as discussed above under Architectural Improvements, will convey a more
urban and civic frontage as a result of reconsidered materiality, the addition of the large north facing
glazed entry foyer and reconfiguration of the arrival space. To the west of the stair and ramp elements,
service vehicle access for the Gallery is maintained. Given the likely infrequent use of this space by
vehicles, it is proposed that this space at the bottom of the entry ramp could also perform as an
informal gathering outside of servicing requirement hours. Complementing the new built form
elements will be soft landscape in the form of the retention of the existing tree and new mass planted
garden beds.
The new entry ramps and stair levels allow the retention of the existing tree on the Bridge Street
frontage. Low seat walls are integrated into planting and ramp edges providing opportunities for
pausing and gathering. Immediately adjacent the buildings entry, a level gathering space is proposed at
the top of the new stair.
The proposed mass planted gardens are composed to frame the new entry and existing buildings that
are to be retained. A mixture of native ground cover species is proposed, of which the expected
maximum growth height is 1.0m, to ensure good visibility across and around the site is maintained.
Importantly the mass planted garden beds are designed to facilitate air space between new hardscape
elements and the fabric of the existing buildings. It is anticipated that the new native mass plantings
could extend along the street frontage of the existing Theatre replacing the existing Agapanthus plants
and thereby making a connection to the native species that dominate this area of Queens Gardens.
10.2 Eel Pond and Queens Gardens Interface
The historical relationship between the Suter Gallery site and Queens Gardens has driven the move to
encourage a greater degree of engagement between the Gallery and its park setting. Although the
relationship between the Queens Gardens and the Suter Gallery is of importance, it is crucial that the
Suter Gallery does not impose itself adversely on the character and experience of the Queens Gardens.
Therefore the balance between facilitating a visual, spatial and experiential relationship between the
two sites is key to both the architectural and landscape interventions proposed to occur on the Suter
Gallery site. This will be achieved by: the proposed retention of a vegetated veil between the building
and pond edge; the continuation of the Eel Pond edge pedestrian access; and the provision engaging
visitor experiences for both Gallery and Queens Gardens patrons alike.
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The proposed new building footprint reduces the width of the land available for landscape development
between the pond edge and building edge and necessitates the removal of a number of existing trees.
Currently much of the vegetation that filters views of the Gallery from the Queens Gardens grows
between the pond edge and the existing gravel path but the proposal entails the majority of mature
specimens at the pond edge will be retained and suitably scaled new native tree plantings will augment
these to maintain or reinstate the filtered building views. The filtered views are recognized by the
Queens Gardens Preservation Society as a key to the Suter Gallery’s harmonious relationship with
Queens Gardens.
Modifications to the existing pond edge access path are required due to the increased building footprint
next to the pond. The proposal is that pond edge access will be maintained and that this access will
continue to link into the Queens Gardens loop path. Access will be established through a timber
boardwalk that traverses the land between the pond edge and built elements. The new boardwalk will
facilitate the relocation of the path to suit the new building’s geometry and size whilst minimising
impact to existing trees. To maintain a minimum width that is comfortable for visitors to walk along the
boardwalk’s length, it will be necessary to remove a number of the immature existing trees at the north
end of the boardwalk, adjacent the new cafe and deck facilities. Given that these trees are currently
small in stature, it is intended that they are relocated in positions on either side of the boardwalk where
space permits. It is anticipated that minor adjustments to the boardwalk alignment may be required at
the time of construction to account for slight deviations in actual tree locations on site.
The alignment of the new boardwalk playfully engages with both new and existing site elements. The
boardwalk will largely sit over land and be slightly elevated above existing ground levels by
approximately 300mm. At the northern end of the board walk, in proximity to the new cafe, it is
proposed that the boardwalk could cantilever over the pond’s edge providing a new dimension to
visitor’s experience of the Gardens and pond. Employing the Queens Gardens key design attributes of ¾
scaled elements and meandering circulation routes, the new boardwalk will vary in width along its
meandering route, with a suggested minimum width of the 1.2m. The location of existing trees and
proposed building projections south of the proposed new café allow for a smaller scaled 10m section of
1.0m wide board walk with a passing bay provided at the midpoint of this narrowed section.
The new building extensions have the potential to revitalize the relationship between the Gallery and its
Queen Gardens setting. As discussed above under Architectural Improvements, the new building’s
geometry and orientation modifies the configuration of space along the Eel Pond’s edge. The
tessellated building fingers form small pockets of discrete spaces between the building and pond. It is
proposed that these spaces will be developed as garden rooms that provide amenity to both gallery and
garden patrons. Although complementing the architectural expression of the building these spaces will
draw on the existing landscape palette to anchor and embed them in the site’s woodland setting. In
unison with the new boardwalk and augmented pond edge planting, it is envisaged that these spaces
will provide opportunities for visitors to pause and enjoy the Suter site’s unique character and qualities.
It is proposed that the landscape treatment of these spaces will consist primarily of planting and that
this planting will be of a scale and texture that complements the woodland setting and minimises
potential future maintenance issues in relation to the Gallery’s building fabric. Each garden space will
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have its own idiosyncratic character relating to planting selection and composition, affording a variety of
garden experiences along the pond edge walk. In conjunction with providing amenity, it is envisaged
that these garden rooms will also assist with detention and conveyance of roof generated storm water
runoff. The building’s roof run off will be discharged into gravel soakage drains planted with native reed
and sedge species, the drains will feed into the existing storm water system that currently discharges
directly into the Eel Pond.
The pond edge walk and garden rooms could accommodate artwork installations at selected sites in the
future to realise a ‘sculpture walk’ as suggested by the Bishop Suter Gallery Trust. The current design
proposal neither relies upon the addition of sculptural elements nor precludes their installation at some
time in the future.
10.3 Albion Square Interface
Landscape interventions along this boundary of the site will be minimal and modest, in keeping with the
low key character of the adjacent Albion Square property which is dominated by a car park and an
expansive grass lawn. The Albion Square car park sits in an elevated position in relation to the Suter
ground levels, a planted embankment topped by a narrow verge currently form interface between the
car park and Suter Gallery site. The embankment accommodates two moderately sized Cuppressus
species and a selection of exotic and native shrub species. The majority of shrub species are poor
specimens and collectively the planting does not present a strong landscape character nor does it
provide an effective screen between the two sites. There is little in the way of designated access
between the Suter and Albion sites, at the southern end of the Albion Square car park, a small set of
timber steps has been constructed to provide access between the two sites.
It is proposed that the planted embankment along the length of the Albion Square car park is removed
to accommodate a new asphalt pedestrian access along the Suter’s new western façade and a new stair
access between the two adjacent sites at the northern end of the interface. The embankment will be
replaced by a new stair at the northern end and south of the stair a new retaining wall of maximum
1.0m height to maintain the car park’s existing levels. A narrow green verge will be retained at the top
of the new retaining wall which is proposed to sit on the site’s boundary line.
The landscape drawing RCL1.10 Amenity Improvement Integration Plan indicates that in the future the
green verge could be augmented with planting that provides some separation and filtered views
between the Albion Square car park and Suter pedestrian access. Although this possible intervention
would garner support from Nelson’s Urban Design Panel, it is noted that further discussion and
consultation with the adjacent landowner, Department of Conservation, would need to be undertaken
before such plans could be realised.
At the southernmost tip of the Albion Square interface, in the vicinity of the historic Brick Magazine and
Firehouse buildings, the existing access between Albion Square and the Eel Pond edge will be retained.
The current access is provided by a narrow asphalt path that is steeply graded and poorly articulated. It
is planned that this entry is upgraded to provide universal access and a small gathering space whereby
small school groups and the like could gather before commencing their journey to the Suter or Queens
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Gardens. The landscape interventions comprise a new stair and accessible ramp access from the Albion
Square level down to the pond edge level. Adjacent the stair a set of informal bleachers/retaining
seating is proposed. At the bottom of the stair and bleachers the existing gravel path is widened to the
west to create a clearing. These interventions, though modest, are intended to give visitors pause to
appreciate the special qualities of the adjacent heritage architecture and the unique character of the Eel
Pond location.
10.4 Planting
The Suter plantings are highly valued for the amenity, habitat and microclimate they provide. The
majority of trees within the site appear to be in healthy condition.
An exception is the Northofagus species (Beech) located adjacent the existing cafe. Nelson City Council’s
Parks and Gardens have advised that this tree is in very poor condition and should be removed
regardless of works relating to the Gallery development.
Sporadic instances of understorey and ground cover planting can be found on site, the majority of which
is concentrated at the Gallery’s existing Bridge Street entry area. Elsewhere on site under‐planting is
irregular, degraded and lacking vitality, particularly along the Eel Pond edge where large sections of
previous planting appears to have died or been removed.
A number of trees are adversely affected by the Gallery development’s proposed expanded foot print.
The new Gallery affects 26 of the 84 trees currently surveyed, refer drawing RCL1.01_Existing Trees. It
is proposed that of these 26, approximately 19 specimens currently located on the east side of the
building could be relocated within the Suter site. Relocation is proposed only for trees that are currently
small enough to move without the requirement for heavy crane and lifting machinery. The 7 remaining
trees affected by the new building works are of a scale and location that their relocation would be
technically difficult and costly to undertake, whist their likelihood of survival would be low. The trees
affected are:
3no. Psuedopanax species;
1no. Hoheria species;
2no. Acer species location: north east of the existing cafe; and
1no Northofagus species (beech) tree located south of the existing gallery building
(investigation will be carried out onsite during site preparations to determine whether this
species can be saved. For the purpose of this Landscape Assessment it is assumed that this
specimen will be removed).
The beech tree (discussed above) in particular is of a mature age. This tree contributes to the existing
canopy cover at the south end of the site. However, it is noted that in addition to its canopy, the canopy
cover at the southern end of the site comprises a number of other mature trees including a large plane
tree and an additional three beech trees on the building side and a number of mixed species at the pond
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edge including Metrosideros species, Kauri and other native trees. It is proposed that all trees that are
removed as a consequence of the Gallery building development will, at a minimum, be replaced with an
advanced nursery stock tree of the same species within the vicinity of its predecessor.
As stated above, under Landscape Design Approach, a number of trees are proposed to be relocated to
accommodate the relocation of the existing pond edge path. These trees are located primarily at the
north end of the pond edge where by the building’s expanded footprint reduces the available space
between the pond and building. The affected trees are 9 in number, refer attached drawing
RCL1.01_Existing Trees. It is proposed that these trees could potentially be relocated dependent upon
level of entwinement of their existing root systems with adjacent trees to be retained. Where the level
of root entwinement is such that the tree cannot be effectively relocated without causing harm to
adjacent trees it is proposed that the tree be cut down and replaced by a new tree of the same species
within the local vicinity.
As described above under Landscape Design and illustrated on RCL 100 Landscape Site Plan, a
significant quantity of new planting is proposed to augment the existing vegetation on site. This
planting will comprise tree, shrub, ground cover and riparian species, primarily of native extraction. The
new planting will build on and contribute to the site’s existing unique character, and provide an
appropriate foil to neighbouring sites. In particular, proposed landscape interventions between the
pond edge and new Gallery buildings will be of a quality and composition that mediates the transition
from built form to Public Park. Supplementary planting will provide landscape amenity that can be
enjoyed by all visitors to the Suter site and its immediate neighbours.
10.5 Ecological Improvement
Although the Eel Pond is valued for its cultural and historical significance to the Nelson region, it has
been highly modified from its natural pre‐European state. The pond’s western arm is lacking hydrophilic
vegetation, which is in stark contrast to early settler’s description of the place. This lack of planting,
combined with an almost uninterrupted concrete edge treatment, on its western arm, gives the pond a
sterile and monotonous appearance, despite the aquatic animal life it supports. The pond intermittently
suffers from algae blooms and odour issues that can be attributed to its shallow depth, ecological
imbalance and low water levels. The pond is undoubtedly a strong structuring element within Queens
Gardens and the Suter site, it is clear that visitors are drawn to this site to enjoy an approximation of
nature or an experience that exists in contrast to urban built form. However, the current condition of
the pond and its sterile appearance detract from its enjoyment and suggests that more could be done to
improve its amenity and health. The ability for the Suter development project to mitigate pond related
issues is limited given that only a small section of the pond sits within the Suter’s legal boundary at the
north end. The Suter development project does, however, include riparian planting of the pond’s
landward edge as an initial step to revitalise the pond and make reference to its natural history pre‐
dating the site’s transformation into an education/ art/ cultural crucible.
Storm water runoff from the new structure’s roof will be temporarily detained in the garden rooms
along the site’s eastern boundary via a series of planted gravel drains. This temporary detention will
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effectively reduce the storm water loading on the city’s stormwater system and provide amenity for
visitors to the Suter site.
11.0 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND AMENITY IMPACTS
11.1 Generally
Most notably, the appearance of the building itself along all three edges of the site; Bridge Street, The
Eel Pond and Albion Square will be significantly improved with unattractive and aged building fabric
being replaced by contemporary materials and architectural form that is commensurate with the Suter’s
cultural and civic significance to the Nelson region. The development underpins a more visually
permeable building that offers a higher degree of engagement between the Suter’s interior and exterior
environments, thereby increasing the potential enjoyment of the site for both Gallery patrons and the
general public. The new sections of building read as a cohesive series of constructed fingers that create
a new dynamic series of spaces around the building. The contemporary forms and materiality of the new
building structures presents a visual foil to the detailing and fabric of existing buildings that are retained.
The scale and massing of the new forms are such that the existing buildings are not overwhelmed or
dominated by the new and building form along the critical Eel Pond edge remains a single storey. In the
larger context, the building complex forms a transitional nexus from the large massing of the Nelson
Courthouse in the west to the structured landscapes of Queens Gardens.
Although the new building has a larger footprint than the existing building, it is intended that the
existing vegetal veil/ woodland that characterises the Eel Pond edge will be largely retained and that the
building will be constructed of materials that either reflect the existing canopied environment or are of
a colour and material type that is recessive. The new cafe and outdoor seating deck will be visible from
within Queens Gardens, however, this is not considered to be detrimental given that the existing cafe is
already highly visible from within Queens Gardens.
The potential loss of 1no mature Beech tree at the southern end of the site will have an impact upon
views of the site’s southern canopy cover; however, the canopy will not be completely removed as a
number of mature trees in this sector are to be retained. The large trees in Albion Square will continue
to provide a backdrop to this part of the site when viewed from Queens Gardens and over time
replacement trees will grow to contribute the canopy cover.
The new landscape proposal is composed to both complement the new building and settle it into its
unique site. Critical is the retention and augmentation of the site’s Eel Pond woodland setting, along
with the development of stronger connections to the site’s immediate neighbours of Bridge Street and
Albion Square north and south.
On balance, we consider that the development of the Suter buildings will contribute positively to the
enjoyment of this unique site, the upgrade of the building fabric will present a much needed
improvement to the Suter’s external appearance, attracting a greater level of respect for the Gallery and
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the collections it holds, and simultaneously conveying the Gallery’s respect for the unique location
within which it is sited.
The new landscape proposal for the Suter has been developed in concert with the architectural design
and with existing site character and context in mind. The existing landscape character varies across the
site, and is highly dependent on the site’s neighbouring context, it is this contextual character that has
driven much of the landscape proposal. With regard to amenity, in general terms the landscape
interventions proposed are intended to support existing amenity and provide supplementary amenity
where it is currently lacking.
11.2 Bridge Street
The Gallery’s new entry configuration and planting along the Bridge Street frontage work in unison with
the existing retained buildings to denote the Gallery’s civic significance. The simplicity of form and high‐
quality materials create a space that is both welcoming and dignified, civic without being overly grand or
incongruent with the street’s existing character.
Amenity in the form of casual gathering is maintained with informal seating provided along the edges of
the new accessible ramps and potential for standing groups to gather at the eastern and western ends
of the space or on the entry ramp. Planting will continue to be an important contributor to the amenity
of the Bridge Street frontage. The existing tree will be retained and supplemented with new low level
plantings. The new stair connection to Albion Square offers a higher degree of permeability between the
two adjacent sites providing amenity through improved circulation.
11.3 Eel Pond/Queens Gardens
The Eel Pond edge already has a strong landscape character and provides amenity for both Suter and
Queens Gardens visitors. The landscape character along the Eel Pond boundary is described and
designated by the NRMP as Woodland. This woodland character is derived from the site’s existing tree
cover. Through the woodland edge an informal gravel path forms the primary access along the Eel
Pond’s edge, worn in areas, the path gravel is not ideal for universal access. Although trees provide
much of the character of this part of the site, the existing site appears to be degraded in terms of
migration of the gravel path, lack of understorey planting and minimal landscape and building
maintenance which detract from the enjoyment of its many positive aspects. The ‘back of house’ quality
of the existing building’s interface with the Eel Pond particularly diminishes visitors’ enjoyment of this
site. The new building development will address the issue of the Gallery’s currently poor interface with
the Eel Pond edge, and will result in the removal of trees that contribute to the woodland character and
reduces the margin of land available for new landscape interventions.
The landscape proposal seeks to address existing issues relating to landscape character and amenity and
to minimise the future impact of the new Gallery building.
The majority of trees along the pond edge are to be retained
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New planting is proposed site wide to augment existing planting including riparian planting on
the landward side of the pond edge, ground covers, shrubs and small trees to the building edge
‘green rooms’.
The proposed boardwalk path maintains access along the Eel Pond forming part of the Queens
Gardens loop and minimises impact to the roots of existing trees.
The boardwalk varies in width; wider sections can incorporate seating elements at key points to
engage with the pond and gallery environments.
The boardwalk surface will be treated to meet slip resistance requirements and the surface will
be universally accessible.
Relocation of trees affected by the new building development will be undertaken where it is
feasible to do so.
11.4 Albion Square
Currently the Albion Square interface‐north is weak, the poor condition of buildings on the Suter site
(excluding the Original Gallery building), and the prosaically planted embankment retaining the Albion
Square boundary contribute little in the way of character or amenity. This is compounded by the
expanse of asphalt car park that extends across the Albion Square site. The new building will contribute
significantly to this boundary’s character and amenity. The existing heritage buildings on the Albion
Square site provide a higher degree of character and amenity in the south, but the existing gravel
parking area and rudimentary timber restraints detract. The Gallery’s development provides a much
stronger built edge along the Albion Square boundary. The removal of the existing planted embankment
does mean the Suter will be more visible when viewed from Albion Square, however, the new building
will be more visually appealing than the existing collection of degraded structures and the inclusion of
window openings along this façade presents opportunities for passive engagement between indoor and
outdoor environments.
At the south end new planting will be installed in the existing gravel parking area, adding amenity and
reinforcing the Queens Gardens landscape character.
The existing site access between the Old Armoury and Firehouse will be upgraded to accommodate
universal access and an informal gathering space. These interventions will be inserted to avoid existing
mature trees and fortified with new planting.
12.0 PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES
With any development there is the potential to adversely affect landscape character, values and the
amenity of the development site as well as adjoining or neighbouring properties. Potential adverse
effects relating to the proposed Suter Gallery development have been separated into two sections
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based on length of effect; potential long‐term effects are outlined under ‘integrated mitigation
measures ‘. Potential adverse effects that may occur as a direct result of the construction of the
development are covered in ‘temporary mitigation measures’ below.
12.1 Integrated Mitigation Measures
Because the proposed development has a larger built footprint than the existing facilities the existing
vegetation on site will be affected. There is also the potential for the development to adversely affect
adjoining properties by means of visual dominance. These effects are recognised as having the potential
to be adverse effects and mitigation measures have been developed and are embedded in the proposed
developments architectural form and materials and the proposed landscape modifications. The impacts
and associated mitigation measures relating to the increase in built form size are outlined below.
Vegetation Removal
The new gallery footprint and relocated Eel Pond edge path affects 33 of the 84 trees currently
surveyed, refer drawing RCL1.01_Existing Trees. As described above in the ‘Landscape Design’,
vegetation that is to be removed to accommodate the increased building footprint will be relocated or
replaced with advanced nursery stock tree of the same species within the vicinity of its predecessor. This
retains as much of the woodland canopy as possible and ensures that any reduction in canopy size will
be mediated with replacement plantings.
In addition to the replacement of trees requiring removal to accommodate the development, a
significant quantity of new planting is proposed to augment the existing vegetation on site. This
planting will comprise tree, shrub, ground cover and riparian species, primarily of native extraction. The
new planting will build on and contribute to the site’s existing unique character, and provides an
appropriate foil to neighbouring sites.
The removal of mature trees on the east side of the Suter Gallery site can be considered to be a
significant adverse effect to the northwest backdrop of the Queens Gardens as it reduces some of the
canopy visible from Queens Gardens, opening the view up to more sky and the canopies of trees in
Albion Square. This however will recover in time with the new plantings for the mutual benefit of the
Suter Gallery and Queens Gardens sites.
Visual Impact of Development on Queens Gardens
The proposed development has carefully considered how it will affect the values and amenity of the
adjacent Queens Gardens. In addition to vegetation modifications as outlined above, the development
has the potential to adversely affect how the Suter Gallery visually relates to and from the Gardens.
The scale and massing of the new Suter Gallery forms are such that building form along the critical Eel
Pond edge remains a single storey; this is an intentional architectural move to avoid the Suter Gallery
visually becoming a dominant element in views afforded from the Queens Gardens. Although the new
building has a larger footprint than the existing building, it is intended that the existing vegetal veil/
woodland that characterises the Eel Pond edge will be largely retained and that the building will be
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constructed of materials that either reflect the existing canopied environment or are of a colour and
material type that is visually recessive.
The effects on the visual relationship between the Queens Gardens and the Suter Gallery are considered
to be no more than minor.
Visual Impact of Development on Albion Square
The proposed development of the Suter Gallery extends the western built edge of the gallery west
toward Albion Square. The proposed buildings western facade will be more visible from Albion Square as
the facade is taller than the existing and some vegetation is to be removed to accommodate a walkway
along the Suter Gallery western boundary. The proposed built edge will be more visually appealing than
the existing collection of degraded structures and the inclusion of window openings along this façade
presents opportunities for passive engagement between indoor and outdoor environments.
The stronger western edge of the Suter Gallery will relate better to the scale of the adjacent courthouse
than the existing Suter Gallery facilities. However, the landscape drawings indicate that in the future the
green verge could be augmented with planting that provides some separation and filtered views
between the Albion Square car park and Suter pedestrian access. Although this possible intervention
would garner support from Nelson’s Urban Design Panel, it is noted that further discussion and
consultation with the adjacent landowner, Department of Conservation, would need to be undertaken
before such plans for the verge could be realised.
While the western facade of the Suter Gallery will be taller and closer than the existing facade, it will be
constructed of higher quality materials and finishes. Concurrently its scale is commiserate with the large
expanses of green lawn in Albion Square, the scale of the adjacent Courthouse development, and the
height of the original Gallery. Thus the adverse visual effects on Albion Square when considered
holistically may be regarded to be no more than minor.
12.2 Temporary Mitigation Measures
The construction of the proposed Suter Gallery will cause temporary adverse effects on the character,
amenity and values associated with the site and also particularly users and views from Queens Gardens.
It is proposed that the following mitigation measures are included as resource consent conditions (but
not limited to):
Construction Management Plan
To ensure the prevention of sediment being spread by runoff or any other means into water bodies i.e.
the Eel Pond or the Maitai River, it is proposed that the contractor supply a Construction Management
Plan (CMP) for review and approval by Nelson City Council prior to the commencement of works. This
will ensure the disturbing of soils is minimised and that the sediment disruption that will occur is
controlled in a appropriate way.
Traffic and Pedestrian Management Plan
Construction works may affect vehicle and pedestrian movements. It is proposed that the contractor
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submit a Traffic and Pedestrian Management Plan (TMP), as part of the Construction Management Plan
(CMP) for review and approval by Nelson City Council. The Traffic and Pedestrian Management Plan is to
include signage measures to ensure alternative circulation is communicated to the public.
13.0 CONCLUSIONS
On the basis of this assessment, it is concluded that:
The Suter Gallery site has a significant history and relationship to its immediate context,
particularly Queens Gardens and Albion Square.
The proposed development of the Suter Gallery affects several mature tree specimens east of
the existing building. Those that are removed will be replaced with advanced nursery stock
within the vicinity of trees’ predecessor. The removal of mature trees has a significant adverse
effect to the backdrop of the Queens Gardens. Overtime this effect will diminish as replacement
trees contribute to the remaining canopy. While some trees will be removed, relocated and/or
replaced the woodland character of the western edge of the Eel Pond will be retained.
The proposed Gallery structure retains historic elements of the existing Gallery as well as the
single storey scale adjacent to the Eel pond edge. The proposed building composition and
materials are designed to be visually recessive when viewed from the Queens Gardens.
The proposed landscape design will integrate the Gallery development into the existing
woodland and cultural setting by building upon the existing vegetation palette and character
and strengthening visual and physical connections sympathetically with the Suter Gallery’s
immediate context.
The proposed planting and along with a management regime will provide for long term
improvements to landscaping adjacent to Queens Gardens.