Simon Bridges National Party Leader simonbridges.co.nz

It's exciting to read reports of the multi-million dollar transformation of the CBD. I support this and the new life it will breathe into the central city.

Tauranga is growing at a rapid pace, and projects like the University of Waikato, redevelopment of the Farmers building and the Old Post Office (to name but a few) are welcome additions.

I understand that for retailers, the construction phase is very challenging. Road closures, reduced foot traffic, noise and construction dust are all less than desirable.

It would be great if there was a way of achieving the end result without the pain, but as we know, this is impossible. If you are a retailer, I sympathise with you during this difficult time.

I do, however, believe it will be worth it. If we fast forward five years, we will see a very different skyline and a stunning CBD. I feel confident that we will walk around the streets of Tauranga with a sense of pride that our city is vibrant, contemporary and rivals others nationally and internationally.

It also future-proofs our city's economy by attracting visitors, inner-city dwellers and businesses keen to take advantage of the opportunities and prosperity here.