Private investment in Hastings as a whole and Stortford Lodge in particular is increasing, with more businesses opening up in the revitalised area.
The latest business to set down roots is St Pierre’s Sushi, which is building a drive-thru, its second drive-thru in the country, at Stortford Lodge.
St Pierre’s development director Costa Katsoulis said they were excited about expanding their presence into Hastings, citing the district as one of their strongest markets.
“We selected Hastings as the second venue for our new drive-thru restaurants because of its vibrant economy and enthusiastic community. We are looking forward to providing first-class sushi to the people of Hastings.”
Stortford Lodge has seen an increase in non-residential development consents approved in the last two years – with other high profile businesses like The ToolShed and Mag and Turbo also opening up on the western end of Heretaunga Street.
The latest Infometrics Quarterly Economic Monitor underscores this positive momentum, showing the number of businesses operating in the district grew by two percent (to 10,705 units) over the past year, nearly double the national average, while the value of non-residential building consents surged by 9.3 per cent to $223.4 million.
“Council’s strategic initiatives aimed at bolstering commercial infrastructure have paid dividends, attracting entrepreneurs and corporations alike to set up roots in our region’s flourishing economic hub,” said Hastings mayor Sandra Hazlehurst.
“Over the past decade, the district has seen the creation of more than 10,000 jobs, providing our people with pathways to professional growth and economic stability. This growth is set to continue and will lift us out of the cyclone’s aftermath.”
Looking ahead, Hastings will align strategic investments in streetscape upgrades and other infrastructure programmes with private investment, as a means of leveraging existing works to reduce the burden on ratepayers.
Media Release: Heretaunga Hastings District Council