Reef Trust Believes Case Stacks Up

News that the Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC)is extending the time period for making a decision on the Lyall Bay Reef resource consent application will be disappointing to supporters but does not necessarily mean bad news, Reef Trust Chairman Tony Lines said today.

"While the Trust naturally wants to clear this final administrative hurdle before it can begin fundraising in earnest, we understand the importance of the decision being seen to have been made after a full and detailed consideration of all the issues," said Tony Lines.

"We note that support for this project, which would be a unique and lasting asset to Wellington, and the South Coast in particular, has been huge and we're confident that we addressed all significant concerns raised during the application process."

"For reef supporters this will be an anxious wait, and we can only hope that it won't be in vain. We're not just talking about a reef for surfers - there are benefits for other water sports enthusiasts as well as fishers and divers."

Wellington City Council provided $135,000 to help pay for the resource consent application process, after Wellington Airport showed its support with a donation of $30,000.

WCC has pledged a further $265,000 for construction of the reef, provided the Trust can come up with funding of $400,000.

"Obviously, the sooner we know the results of the consent application, the sooner we can get on with the task of raising money for the construction of the reef. We will, however, be applying to the Lotteries Grants Board this week as their funding for community projects will expire after 22 August."

"If we're successful in raising the funds, construction could be begin as early as next year.

Supporters can visit www.lyallbayreef.org.nz to keep up with news and views on the reef.

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