Wellington Chamber of Commerce

Media Statement
Thursday 5th May 2016
Adding to town belt fantastic outcome, says Chamber

Adding 120 hectares to the city’s protected reserves is a fantastic outcome from the passing of the Wellington Town Belt Bill last night, says Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive John Milford.

“All those involved in this should be congratulated.

“The bill was sponsored by MP Grant Robertson on behalf of the City Council, and the Chamber was right in behind it.

“This is a fantastic outcome. At one stage there were concerns about how the bill could have been a handbrake on work around future transport improvements – by removing the Public Works Act from the process and making parts of the compulsory acquisition process impractical – but late changes averted that.

“Being able to not only protect the existing town belt but to add greatly to it while not restricting the ability for future works is an example of the sort of sensible outcomes we need to ensure our city retains its uniqueness.

“The town belt is a jewel in the city’s crown and it’s great to know that it’s now protected forever.”

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