Friday 21 March 2014
Economic development review – preparing for the decade ahead
The Manawatu District and Palmerston North City Councils are undertaking a review of their economic development
activities.
A number of agencies receive funding and support from both Councils to achieve economic development goals. This review
will look at the economic development activities within Vision Manawatu, Destination Manawatu, Bio Commerce Centre,
Spearhead, Feilding Promotion and Sport Manawatu.
The initial review began last year when Manawatu District Council started work on an Economic Development Strategy.
Palmerston North City Council, which already has an Economic Development Strategy, has now been invited to partner
Manawatu District Council in the service delivery component of the review.
Manawatu District Council Mayor Margaret Kouvelis says the timing is right as both Councils are preparing ahead of next
year’s Long Term Plans.
“The review will help ensure our economic development goals are achieved in the decade ahead.”
Palmerston North Mayor Jono Naylor says the review will be completed by August and may also result in the Regional
Development Strategy being refreshed.
“Proposed changes to the funding or delivery of services suggested by the review will feed into both Manawatu’s and
Palmerston North’s Long Term Plans. The public will get to have their say when those plans are released for public
consultation next year.”
Consulting firm Morrison Low, which worked for both Councils on the successful Boundary Change project, has been
appointed to carry out the review.
ENDS