Wellington council defers heritage permit for Drake Devonshire Inn expansion

Wellington City Council referred the application for a heritage permit to expand the historic Drake Devonshire Inn back to its development services department. The proposed three‑storey addition to the 19th‑century former foundry would alter the site at 20 and 24 Wharf Street, which lies within the Wellington Heritage Conservation District.

Councillors heard arguments from the developer’s lawyer, who warned of potential legal action, and from local residents concerned about the building’s fit with the surrounding area and construction disruption. Council instructed staff to work with the developer on a revised plan that complies with the heritage district’s requirements and to present a recommendation at the next council meeting.