THE physical site housing Spark’s Business Hub in Whakatāne will be closing at the end of the month, but two staff will still be working remotely.

Although the physical satellite office will be closed on July 31, the two staff will still be visiting businesses in the area to provide services and support.

Spark Business Hubs provide business customers with personal service and one-on-one advice.

The Spark store on The Strand is separate to the business hub and will continue operating as usual.

Spark corporate relations partner Beth Stubbe said the Business Hub was closing only its physical presence in Whakatāne.

“This was a satellite office which very few customers visited in person. The two employees who were based there will continue to support local businesses remotely and with face-to-face visits,” she said.

An email to Spark Business Hub customers said service to customers in Whakatāne, Ōpōtiki and Kawerau will remain “steadfast” despite the changes.

Bridge case funding

TWO Eastern Bay projects are highlighted in a “blueprint for a connected, resilient, and vibrant” region that has been adopted by Bay of Plenty Regional Council.

The Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) 2024-2034 is the way the Bay of Plenty seeks Central Government funding for transport activities and is a requirement under the Land Transport Management Act 2003.

The plan has identified several key projects to be considered for funding by New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, among these, $500,000 for a business case for an additional river crossing to support Whakatāne’s growth.

It is also seeking $300,0000 for Ōpōtiki town entrance intersection improvements for safer travel.

Funding decisions will be published in the National Land Transport Programme, likely in September.