Work on the third stage of the Manawa – Heart of the City project, which aims to revitalise Rotorua's inner city, is set to begin on Monday.

The refresh of the former City Focus site, which has been a three-stage project, will contribute towards the district's goal to create a vibrant city centre that attracts people and activities.

The Rotorua Lakes Council project was approved following feedback from inner city stakeholders and the community with the majority of people seeking change.

Based on key themes from feedback received, the design was aimed at improving vehicular movement through the intersection, clearing sight lines in all directions and ensuring a focus on people, enabling better use of the space.

The project comes under council's District Development portfolio and is being led by councillor Karen Hunt who says she is excited that completion of the project is now near.

'This will see the opening up of shared space in the inner city including slow-moving vehicles and will dramatically open up use of this area and create opportunities for residents and businesses alike.

'I'm thrilled we're about to start the final stage and I thank the public for their patience, their feedback and their ongoing interest in helping to create a vibrant new heart of the city.”

Preparation for the final stage, which will involve remaining construction works including roading changes, landscaping and seating, is set to start on May 15, weather permitting.

Fletcher Construction has agreed to a fixed price of $1.135m for the third stage. Work to date has cost a total of $231,000 and the project will be completed within the budget agreed in the Long-term Plan.

Next week contractors will move onto the site to prepare for the work ahead. Fencing will be installed and materials brought in.

The final stage of work at the site is expected to be finished by early August but this is weather dependent. Noise and disruption will be kept to a minimum.

For all details about the project, including background, decisions made and timelines, visit www.rotorualakescouncil.nz

A bird's eye view.