09/05/2018

A fresh approach to customer engagement has proven successful in Council’s Long Term Plan formal consultation.

Director of transformation and relationships Keita Kohere said the community response had been fantastic.

The consultation period generated 437 submissions, including 83 that asked to be heard at the public hearings.

Road and cycle ways, wastewater treatment options, Drainwise and water quality were among the recurring submission points.

The proposed Olympic Pool redevelopment generated a very high number of submissions - 94% of which were in favour of Council’s preferred option, which includes continuing to provide a 50m pool.

Ensuring council makes adequate provision in the LTP for the recently adopted Community Facilities Strategy also featured in a high number of submissions.

There was strong support for Council’s preferred option around the Taruheru cycleway.

Several submissions asked that the Tokomaru Bay Wharf be restored while others sought biodiversity enhancements at Waingake.

“The feedback received at community meetings, online and in formal submissions means we are much clearer on our communities priorities and the upcoming hearings will add clarity to that,” Ms Kohere said.

“A big thank you to everyone that took the time to help set the future direction for council.”

Consultation closed on April 20 and hearings of the LTP submissions will be held over three days from May 14.

Councillors will deliberate the submissions on May 16 - 17 before the final LTP for 2018-2028 is adopted at a council meeting on June 28.

ENDS

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