Thursday, 13 August, 2015

Comments sought on freedom camping bylaw

Christchurch City Council is seeking comments on a proposed freedom camping bylaw.

The Council decided at its meeting today to start a formal consultation on 20 August 2015.

The proposed bylaw details areas where freedom camping would be prohibited, restricted to certified self-contained vehicles (those with on-board wastewater facilities), allowed for non-self-contained or self-contained vehicles for limited periods of time or overnight only, and areas with no restrictions.

Maps showing the specific prohibited and restricted areas are included in the proposed bylaw.

A consultation document with information about the bylaw and a submission form will be available at Council libraries and service centres, and the Civic Offices in Hereford Street from 20 August.

Submissions are invited until 21 September 2015.

Acting Strategic Policy Unit Manager Claire Bryant says anyone can make a submission on the proposed bylaw.

"Some residents in popular freedom camping spots are directly affected by the bylaw and we're particularly keen to hear from them," Ms Bryant says.

"Also we know there are some people here from overseas who work on the rebuild who are freedom campers and they are invited to make a submission too. Even tourists from other places in New Zealand or overseas can give us their view.

"We want to hear any feedback, positive or negative, let us know what you think," Ms Bryant says.

"This is the chance for people to have their say and help us shape the bylaw into one that will help to manage freedom camping into the future."

Public drop-in sessions have been set up so people can call in to get more information:

• Thursday 20 August, 3.30pm to 6.30pm, Akaroa Sports Complex, Rue Lavaud, Akaroa (at the same time as the District Plan Review drop-in)
• Monday 24 August, 5pm to 7pm, Duvauchelle Hall
• Saturday 5 September, 12.30pm to 2pm, Peterborough Library
• Saturday 12 September, 9.30am to 11am, Beach Café, 16 Beach Rd, New Brighton.

Information is also available on the Council's website www.ccc.govt.nz/haveyoursay.

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