Wellington’s Civic Square, the heart of the capital, is embroiled in controversy as mayoral candidate Graham Bloxham, representing One Network Wellington Live (ONWL), demands a full inquiry into alleged financial mismanagement and potential theft by Wellington City Council (WCC). Bloxham claims council officers grossly overstated the cost of demolishing a building next to the Town Hall by at least $250 million, misleading councillors throughout the process. Additionally, he alleges a local developer offered $60 million to strengthen and preserve the structure, an option the council ignored. Consequently, Bloxham is calling for an immediate halt to all work at Civic Square, including the Town Hall and underground carpark, until a transparent investigation, potentially led by former mayor Dame Kerry Prendergast, can uncover the truth.

The accusations, raised by Bloxham and supported by ONWL, centre on the council’s handling of Civic Square’s redevelopment. Specifically, Bloxham argues that inflated costings for demolishing the building adjacent to the Town Hall were presented to councillors, leading to questionable decisions. Moreover, he suggests the council dismissed a viable proposal to save the building, which could have preserved Wellington’s heritage while saving millions. Instead, the council opted for demolition, a move Bloxham labels as wasteful and potentially fraudulent. As a result, ONWL is demanding all related costings and communications be made public to ensure accountability.

Furthermore, Bloxham has raised concerns about ongoing censorship by WCC. He claims the council is blocking emails from himself and another advocate, Mr Goulden, to councillors. This alleged suppression of communication raises questions about transparency, especially as the council faces scrutiny over its financial decisions. Accordingly, ONWL has formally requested WCC’s Business Information team provide detailed records of all Civic Square project costs and correspondence. Bloxham insists these documents are critical to understanding whether mismanagement or misconduct has occurred.

The call for an inquiry has sparked debate among Wellingtonians, many of whom view Civic Square as a vital public space. Bloxham’s proposal for Dame Kerry Prendergast, a respected former mayor, to lead the investigation has gained traction. Her experience, he argues, makes her ideal to ensure an impartial review. Meanwhile, the council’s plans to lease part of Civic Square to a developer for a 10-storey building have already drawn criticism from residents and campaigners, who fear the loss of public space. Thus, Bloxham’s allegations add fuel to growing public discontent with WCC’s decision-making.

In response, WCC has yet to address the specific claims of overstated costs or email censorship. However, the council has previously defended its Civic Square plans, citing financial pressures and the need for modern infrastructure. Nevertheless, Bloxham and ONWL remain steadfast, urging ratepayers to demand answers. They argue that without a thorough inquiry, trust in the council will continue to erode.

Ultimately, the controversy surrounding Civic Square highlights broader concerns about transparency and accountability at WCC. As Bloxham campaigns for mayor, his push for an inquiry resonates with voters frustrated by rising rates and perceived waste. Whether Prendergast will lead the investigation or if the council will release the requested documents remains unclear. For now, ONWL and Bloxham are committed to holding WCC accountable, ensuring Wellington’s civic heart is protected for future generations. The outcome of this inquiry could shape the city’s future and redefine trust in local governance.