The Council’s Surface Water Strategy is now open for consultation, and this is the community’s opportunity to learn more about the surface water in Christchurch, and have their say on the way the Council is proposing to manage this important resource.

Mayor Bob Parker says: “Surface water in Christchurch means different things to different people and covers a range of different water bodies from lakes, streams and rivers to stormwater channels.

“While the Council is ultimately responsible for ensuring these surface waterways are managed well, every person has a role to play in making sure these special resources are looked after now and for future generations,’’ Mayor Parker says.

“This is why the Council is asking the public what they think about the proposed Surface Water Strategy. This strategy sets out the Council’s goals and objectives for protecting and managing surface water in Christchurch and Banks Peninsula. It shows how the Council plans to meet the challenges we all face, including declining water quality, urban growth and climate change,’’ he says.

“Surface water is vital to Christchurch’s communities. It is not only a valuable resource for recreation, ecology and the wildlife that lives in and around the rivers and lakes, it is also culturally important to many people, and especially to Ngai Tahu. Whether it is a walk along a favourite river, a kayak on a lake, fishing, bird watching or picnicking, most people in Christchurch will have appreciated the special environment of Christchurch’s surface water.

“The strategy outlines a range of ways in which surface water will be looked after and managed, including public education about pollution, reviewing how storm water is managed and working with businesses and industry to promote the removal of contaminants at the source of pollution.

The objectives of the strategy and how the Council plans to meet them, can be seen on www.ccc.govt.nz/haveyoursay, at libraries and service centres or by calling 941 8999.

Information sessions at will be held at Our City / Otautahi, 12 pm to 2 pm and 5.30 pm to 6.30 pm on Monday 27 July, and at Little River Community Centre, 6 pm on Wednesday 29 July. Staff will be available to answer questions.

Consultation starts on Monday 13 July and finishes on Friday 14 August, and submission forms are available from www.ccc.govt.nz/haveyoursay. “

ENDS

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