18 April 2005 Media Statement

Marian Hobbs postpones V8 public meeting

Wellington Central MP Marian Hobbs is postponing tomorrow night's public meeting on the proposed V8 car race following Wellington City Council's decision to conduct an improved public submission process and delay the race for a year.

The council will now seek resource consent under the Resource Management Act for a race route different from that allowed in the District Plan.

"The Resource Management process will allow the proposal to be fully considered on the basis of in-depth information," Marian Hobbs said. "My concern all along has been that the proposal to hold the race was being rushed without the council having all relevant information.

"The more information I've gathered from businesses along the original route and elsewhere, the more concerned I've become that the glamour is outweighing the reality. The public has a right to expect the council to make informed decisions

"I booked the Paramount Theatre so that residents could access information and have their say and I thank The Dominion Post for its support in helping facilitate the meeting.

"I am glad the city council appears to have listened to our concerns so I have decided to postpone tomorrow's meeting. But we may reconvene it once we know a little more about the route, timing and process."

ENDS

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