7 March 2006

Greens welcome Whangamata decision

Conservation Minister Chris Carter is to be applauded for his decision to invoke his statutory right as final decision-maker and refuse consent for a controversial plan to develop a marina in Whangamata Harbour, Green Party Co-Leader Jeanette Fitzsimons says.

"I am pleased that the Minister has decided to value coastal ecology and the protection of public space for public use over the financial interests of private groups," Ms Fitzsimons says.

The Environment Court had previously approved the application to build a 205-berth marina and car park, but under the law the Minister of Conservation has the final say on all restricted coastal activities in recognition of the public's interest in the coastal marine area.

"It will not have been an easy decision in light of the money spent by the applicant, but Mr Carter has made the right one in using his statutory authority to protect a rare salt marsh and to respect the concerns of local residents, harbour users and iwi," Ms Fitzsimons says.

ENDS

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