The discussion process around Tauranga's city precinct redevelopment has begun, with workshops aimed at the city's business owners taking place ahead of public feedback in mid-November.

The first of the two workshops at Beca on Monday are closed to the public, but invitations to the a third discussion have been sent to all Priority One members.

The city council buildings on Willow Street. Photo: File.

The Civic Space options project follows the discovery of stachybotrys mould in the main council buildings in December last year.

The project hopes to determine the best options not only for future council staff accommodation, but for the project could work as a catalyst for other opportunities.

'Good decision making will lead to multiple benefits from this project,” says Mayor Stuart Crosby.

'We cannot limit our thinking at this stage to our staff accommodation needs, or we will under-deliver to our city,”

The majority of the 50 annual plan submissions received on the civic centre asked council to take a wider view than simply replacing the existing buildings.

The public feedback process in November will ask the public what the project should focus on, as well as its timing.

'These opportunities are not yet defined, but may include consideration of a public space, public amenities, car parking and so on,” says Stuart. 'Community engagement will help the council refine the scope of the project.

'It is Tauranga's time to think about how our city centre needs to look and feel to be competitive in future.

'We are investing $8 million over the next five years to improve the streetscape, waterfront and open spaces in the heart of the city.”

The funds allocated for development allows the city to partner with the private sector, highlight development opportunities and attract more people to the heart of the city, adds Stuart.