Spatial Plan Consultation Gets Extension

Dunedin, 22 November 2011 - Such has been the level of public interest in the DCC’s Draft Spatial Plan that the deadline for submissions has been extended into the new year and now closes on 13 January 2012.

The DCC’s City Development Manager, Anna Johnson, is extremely pleased with the turnout at public information sessions over the last few weeks and the interesting discussions that have arisen at these sessions.

“Clearly the ideas in the Spatial Plan, most of which have come from the community, have struck a chord and are stimulating debate. Several people have said they wanted more time to make a submission so they could really think about the document and talk about it with their families over the Christmas break,” she says.

Dunedin Architect Michael Ovens, who attended one of the sessions, reminds the public that the plan is a draft for consultation, meaning the Council wants feedback and is encouraging discussion - “It’s important for people to get involved. This is a chance to participate directly which may have an impact on the future spatial design of your neighbourhood and wider city.”

Jo Millar, Chair of Grey Power Dunedin, attended three of the information sessions and says she noticed a consensus among attendees that the draft Spatial Plan has a good understanding of what people's needs are, that DCC staff are co-ordinating with others and are prepared to listen to, and see merit in, suggestions from the attendees.

Councillor Kate Wilson, who chairs the DCC’s Planning and Environment committee, is delighted by the response so far and the move to allow more time for comment. “Giving the city’s future some thought over the mince-pies and Christmas cake will add another dimension to our consultation!” she said.

Copies of the Draft Spatial Plan and its summary document are available at www.dunedin.govt.nz/spatialplan or DCC Customer Services Centres and Libraries, as well as at a number of local cafes.

ENDS

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