The Hurunui District Council has approved the key issues to be included in its draft Long Term Plan 2018-2028 (LTP) for public consultation. The issues include proposed new rates to be introduced to cover earthquake-related infrastructure issues and footpath maintenance, road funding and an agreed way forward for the Amberley swimming pool’s redevelopment.

The council’s endorsement of the key issues and options proposed for funding these, cements their inclusion in the LTP consultation document for the public to have their say on.

The council’s Public Services Manager, Audrey van der Monde, says now the council has endorsed the key issues for public consultation, the Hurunui community can contribute to council planning and influence the rating outcomes for these significant issues.

“It is a major step forward that these key issues have been endorsed by the council and will now form the basis of the LTP consultation document. There are multiple options for tackling each of these three key issues and it is vital the council hears the opinions of its ratepayers.”

Of particular interest to many in the district is a way forward for the redevelopment of the Amberley swimming pool into an indoor, heated year-round facility. The project is proposed to be split into two stages of development, with a new outdoor, heated, community facility to be constructed first in 2018/19, with a pool enclosure including a roof to be added later in stage two. As with the other key issues, the available options for how this is achieved without placing an excessive burden of cost on ratepayers will be a key part of the public consultation process.

Mayor Winton Dalley says the council’s LTP document sets the direction for the next 10 years, and plans for services and facilities throughout the district.

“I urge the community to get involved in the LTP consultation process and let the council know your views on the proposals for each key issue. The feedback received will be crucial to the outcome and the rating mechanisms used in future to address the key issues identified.”

Members of the public are invited to submit their feedback on the council’s draft LTP during the consultation period from 30 March to 30 April 2018. Details of how to do this will be available on the council’s website.

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