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Wilderland Community bewildered
20 October 2010
*Media Release*
*Wilderland Community bewildered*
Members of the Wilderland community
in the Coromandel are deeply baffled as they are now a step
closer to losing their homes.
* *
At a meeting today
between Thames Coromandel District Council and Wilderland
representatives, Council rejected pleas by the educational
community to be given time to upgrade its buildings.
TCDC reaffirmed it will seek a court order for the evacuation and demolition of 14 of the community’s buildings.
The decision comes in spite of Wilderland’s guarantees that given a reasonable time it will endeavour to meet the current building code requirements.
The Wilderland Trust had put forward a proposal for their upgrade, which Council had previously accepted.
Wilderland General Manager, Russel Mooyman, says he is surprised Council does not respect its agreement with the trust.
“While we acknowledge the dwellings in question do not comply with the latest building code requirements and practices, they present no actual risk to their occupants.
“Given enough time, we will upgrade the buildings amenities and fire escapes to meet the council’s requirements.
TCDC accepted Wilderland’s upgrade proposal on 3 September; it then sent a court hearing notice on 5 October. The Court hearing is due to take place on 15 November.
The Wilderland community consists of 10 long-term residents. It operates an organic farm as well as a roadside shop that has been selling organic produce since 1966. It also offers educational experiences for individuals who want to learn about organic farming.
Mr Mooyman says Council’s decision, if implemented, will force Wilderland residents, families and children into temporary lodgings, such as tents.
“Wilderland is a public asset with great heritage value that offers training in sustainable community living.
“We are grateful for the public support and look forward to working cooperatively with Council to meet building regulations,” says Mr Mooyman.
*For more
information: **www.wilderland.org.nz/help.html*
* *
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