06 March 2001

Submissions on a Variation to the District Plan as it relates to residential centres or community homes are being sought from interested parties.

Community homes include residences run by government departments, charitable trusts, church groups or private organisations to provide support, accommodation and/or behavioural change programmes.

The Variation is an attempt to take into consideration concerns of residents in neighbourhoods where community homes are located as well as considering the needs of people who will be accommodated in them. Up until now community homes accommodating not more than ten people including staff did not require a resource consent. If the changes are adopted these homes will now need to apply for a non-notified consent.

Other changes in the Variation include location and management plans.

Manukau City Councillors say the Variation will balance the needs of residents against the need for community homes in Manukau.

Residents are frustrated at what they believe to be ‘clustering’ of homes something Colin Dale, City Manager, says goes against the philosophy of a supported rehabilitation into the wider community.

“We had one situation where there were 3 community homes in a street of only 14 houses. This kind of clustering does not create a social environment congruent with community cohesion. On the contrary it reinforces stigma and discrimination.

“Community homes are an important feature in our city and much needed in Manukau. We already have 120 and expect this number to rise. Councillors believe this Variation is important so residents have faith in Council being aware of what is happening around the City and to make decisions on their behalf balanced with the need to provide the appropriate support. The new changes are also a move to ensure communication between government agencies, service providers and residents remains open,” says Mr Dale.

The Variation has been publicly notified giving interested parties until April 27 2001 to make formal submissions to Harrison and Grierson – the consultants working on Council’s behalf.

Planning consultants Harrison and Grierson were engaged to ensure wide consultation and different options were considered.

Ends

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