The gardeners of Basque Park have been given a 10-month reprieve and can stay in the park for a further growing season.

At Friday’s Parks and Recreation Committee meeting, Councillors decided to accept a report allowing the community gardens to remain in Basque Park until May 2002.

Bill Christian, Chairperson of the Parks and Recreation Committee, said he was happy with the outcome.

“This decision is common sense and is consistent with the Council’s strategy of valuing its natural environment and exploring new ways of creating green spaces.”

“It also supports the Hobson Community Board’s decision to extend the tenure of the gardens”.

Council officers will now negotiate with St Benedicts Urban Farm Project Inc.

Mr Christian said that Auckland City is also in the process of developing a city-wide Community Gardens Policy.

“A discussion document is expected by September, which the council will seek public input on. After a Community Board review, expected by March 2002, the policy will be brought to the Council in April 2002”.

“That policy will assist the council in making a final decision about the future of the Basque Park gardens.”

ENDS

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