The building at 22 Ross Pl has been boarded up since at least May 2018, when its "state of disrepair" was noted by the Lawrence-Tuapeka Community Board.
A board report said the shop was "detracting from the heritage features" of the town’s main street, where it occupies a highly visible central location.
During the board’s most recent meeting last month, member Lindy Chinnery said she hoped a new proposal might offer a solution.
She proposed masking the building frontage with a combination of planter boxes and seating.
Board member Tim Dickey suggested backing the arrangement with corrugated iron cladding, to better complement the street’s "heritage look".
Costs of $2500 to $3500 would be found by the board.
Elements could be attached to a framework for easy removal or, with permission, to the shop itself, Mrs Chinnery said.
Chairman Geoff Davidson said earlier this week the project remained under consideration.
"I hope to make contact with the owner to discuss our proposals once lockdown ends," he said.
