New pavilion for A & P Park

Nelson firm JTB Architects has been chosen to design the new pavilion for Marlborough’s A & P Park in Blenheim.

Discussion with JTB will begin soon to discuss details around the scope of the project including building materials, size, colours and layout including office space, said Parks and Open Spaces Manager Jane Tito.

JTB has completed several commercial buildings locally including the Bragato Research Winery, the New Zealand Wine Centre - Te Pokapū Wāina o Aotearoa and Marlborough Vintners Winery.

Twelve companies submitted proposals with 11 qualifying for initial assessment. Four were then selected for closer review and a preferred company was chosen for the final interview.

“The submissions were well prepared and the architectural companies had spent time in preparing for their presentation,” said Mrs Tito.

The new building will replace the aging pavilion, which is home to Marlborough Football, Marlborough Farmers’ Market and the A & P Show.

A report commissioned by Council in 2023 looked at future planning to optimise the park’s functionality and benefits for the community. Council requested a master plan be prepared to consider what facilities should be developed and how they should be configured within the park.

The master plan identified the best area for the new pavilion was near the site of the demolished grandstand, which meant the existing pavilion could be used until the new facility was built.

A new pavilion was first signalled in the 2015-25 Long Term Plan.