Styx Project Gains National Recognition

Shirley/Papanui Community Board’s vision for the Styx River catchment has been recognised with a Supreme Award in the inaugural Community Boards Best Practice Awards

The Award for the best entry in the Significant Project category was presented to Board chairperson Yvonne Palmer at the New Zealand Community Boards Conference in New Plymouth, last Saturday (14 June).

Mrs Palmer said it was a tremendous achievement for the large number of people who had worked on this project.

“We are all thrilled with this award,” she said. “If we are winning accolades in the early stages of this initiative, imagine what benefits there will be in ten or fifteen years time.”

Now in its fifth year of development, the 40-year plan contains five visions for the Styx catchment that the community want implemented, said Christine Heremaia, Christchurch City Council Styx Project Area Leader.

Ms Heremaia said she was encouraged by the recognition this award brought to the City of Christchurch and the Shirley/Papanui Community Board.

“Those involved are already very aware of the significance and worth of this project. The opportunity to be able to plan and implement visions for a total river catchment, particularly prior to urbanisation, will enable the community to maximise the potential values of the Styx River ecosystem through the development of such things as green corridors and river walkways.”

The Powerco sponsored Best Practice Trophy is now on display in the Shirley Papanui Community Board offices.

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