20 November 2006

Public meeting to discuss the future of fishing off the pier

A public meeting will be held this Wednesday evening as part of the Council’s process of deciding how to manage fishing off New Brighton Pier in the future.

Public consultation is now underway, with over 90 submissions received during the first two weeks of public consultation, which closes on Friday 8 December.

The Council has decided that it is now time to address the problems associated with fishing off the pier. Numerous complaints have been received from members of the public about inconsiderate and sometimes unacceptable behaviour by some people who fish off it.

Five options have been identified for how the Council could manage fishing off the pier in the future:

- No changes – current unrestricted access and fishing rules apply, with limited enforcement.
- Increased enforcement and communication – onsite supervision, supported by a public education programme.
- Restricted fishing - allow fishing only at specified times or days.
- Total ban on fishing – with onsite enforcement.
- Structural addition to the pier – an additional platform to separate sightseers and fishers.

Brochures outlining the five options in detail, including submission forms, are available from Council service centres and libraries. Consultation information is also available online at www.ccc.govt.nz/haveyoursay

All members of the public are invited to attend a public meeting at the New Brighton Workingmen’s Club this Wednesday 22 November at 7.30pm. Elected members and Council staff will be present to discuss the issue of managing fishing off New Brighton Pier.

ENDS

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