29 June 2018

Media Release

Tasman confirms big infrastructure focus for next 10 years

The Tasman District Council has adopted its Long Term Plan 2018 – 2028, setting out the projects it will carry out, the services it plans to deliver, and how much money it will spend.

Tasman Mayor Richard Kempthorne said while a lot of the planning conversations had focussed on rates and debt, the true purpose of the Long Term Plan was much broader than that.

“All the planning, budgeting and programming is for Tasman’s communities, businesses, households and families. It’s so that everyone can appreciate the environment, have access to community facilities, safe and reliable water and wastewater (and many other services), make a good living, and enjoy a lifestyle that contributes to society.”

Richard said upgraded water infrastructure was big focus for the next 10 years. “We need some major upgrades to improve drinking water quality to meet national standards, and to ensure a secure supply for our growing communities.”

The Council will spend $45.5 million on water security and capacity projects, and $27 million on treatment upgrades across the District over the 10 years.

Richard added: “Population growth continues to put pressure on our existing transport, stormwater, wastewater and water networks, so we’ll also spend $57.5 million on new infrastructure to cater for growth and $164.1 million on upgrades to improve existing services.”

In addition, there are a range of other projects, large and small, the Council will carry out to improve facilities and services for its communities. Some highlights include:

· Pohara to Takaka Cycleway $1.18 million 2018 – 2020

· Safe cycle crossing at Champion Road $2.3 million 2019 -2020

· Richmond Library extended opening hours

· Brightwater Town Centre Upgrade $870,000 2019 – 2020

· Motueka Library redevelopment $3.9 million 2019 – 2021

· Tasman’s Great Taste Trail extension – Spooner’s Tunnel to Motueka $3 million 2019 – 2022

· $85,000 per annum for Tasman-based visitor information centres

ENDS

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