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

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