Council turns towards the remarkable river

30 OCTOBER 2014

Hamilton City Council today voted to adopt the River Plan with one month allocated for public feedback.

People can give their views on the 30-year plan for the 16-km of river that runs through Hamilton until 4pm on 28 November.

Mayor Julie Hardaker says the River Plan will change the way Hamiltonians relate to, celebrate and enjoy the river.

“I want this to become an inspirational plan about what the river can be and how we can make it a real part of our everyday life. The River Plan is relevant, realistic and reflects our history and culture. Hamilton will come of age when this plan gets underway,” says Mayor Hardaker.

The plan has been developed by a working group of elected members and industry experts who considered feedback and ideas from the public.

“One of the biggest messages we received from the public was to get on with it,” says Mayor Hardaker.

“They want see the river and access it. This plan will turn the city towards the river and truly make it the heart of Hamilton.”

The working group also collaborated with a technical advice group of council staff and representatives from Waikato-Tainui, Waikato Regional Council, Mighty River Power and The Waikato River Authority.

The plan contains medium and long term projects and some that are planned to start immediately, like planning for the development of the Ferrybank area which aims to transform the waterfront area into a destination for Hamiltonians and visitors to the city.

Visit hamiltoncityriverplan.co.nz to view the plan and give feedback from today (31 October) until 4pm on the 28 November 2014.

The motion to adopt the River Plan for public consultation was passed 10-1 with Councillor Gary Mallet voting against.

ENDS

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