Maymorn sustainable village community tabled for consideration

Village concept central to council discussions regarding the Maymorn Structure Plan. UPPER HUTT, Wellington NZ, 22 June 2011— Planning for the future of sustainable residential growth in Upper Hutt City will progress next week with Upper Hutt City Council to consider the final draft of the Maymorn Structure Plan.

“The vision for Maymorn is one of a sustainable village community” says Mayor Wayne Guppy. “I am excited about the prospects for Maymorn and how residential growth can be undertaken in a much more sustainable manner than a traditional residential model. By basing the Structure Plan around the Maymorn railway station we are able to integrate the development around existing infrastructure, and plan for future growth in an integrated and comprehensive way.”

The plan has been developed with an urban design focus, drawing on key urban design and sustainability principles. It has been planned with varying housing densities proposed, along with a range of sustainability initiatives. It responds to natural areas and the landscape by seeking to protect and enhance waterways and surrounding hills. Density has been planned in order to respect and transition the development into the surrounding rural areas.

The proposed village would occupy the north-eastern corner of the Mangaroa Valley, bound by the Mangaroa River and surrounding hillside, and respecting the rural amenities surrounding the site. “By locating a proportion of future development north of the city, Maymorn is well positioned to provide a long term boost to the Upper Hutt CBD through added critical mass.” says Mr Guppy. For the remainder of the wider valley there are no other changes proposed throughout this process.

“Upper Hutt is a city of opportunities. It has numerous leisure attractions, lifestyle options for families at all stages of life, a rich natural environment, and a strong and inclusive community. Add to that, an effective transport network and a city that is close to Wellington regional connections.

Where else will you find all of the above, plus a choice of rural/urban property opportunities, within an innovative carefully considered development amid a place of natural beauty?” questions Mr Guppy.

The Maymorn Structure Plan is the result of significant strategic work planning for the future growth of Upper Hutt. It has been prepared to guide the future residential development of the city in the Maymorn area, as a response to the expected population growth in Upper Hutt. The plan will provide for medium-term growth by accommodating approximately 1800 dwellings with the population at Maymorn expected to exceed 4000 people over 10 to 20 years.

The Maymorn Structure Plan is expected to be opened for public consultation in early July. Verbal submissions should be heard late August, with Council considering the submissions and determining whether or not they will adopt the Structure Plan in September 2011. If the plan is adopted, it will proceed to the next stage, by introducing changes to the Upper Hutt District Plan.

The draft Structure Plan will be considered by Council at its Policy Committee meeting on Wednesday, 22 June 2011.

About Upper Hutt City Council

Upper Hutt City Council is the steward and custodian of Upper Hutt City, providing governance, infrastructure, and community services and resources, and promoting opportunity in the city for business, recreation, lifestyle, and leisure. Upper Hutt City is located 30 km north-east of Wellington City (41°07'34" S, 175°04'06" E) and boasts 70% of the region’s parks and reserves, along with state-of-the-art entertainment and leisure facilities.Contact For more information on Upper Hutt City and the City Council, go to www.upperhuttcity.com

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