15 August 2019
The initial phase of community engagement for South Wairarapa’s Spatial Plan has been extended to allow more people, and organisations, to have their say on the future development of the District. The closing date is now Friday 13 September, at 5pm.
Hearing from the community about how they want South Wairarapa to develop in future is essential to preparing for ongoing population growth, and ensuring the wellbeing of our communities and the environment.
The Spatial Plan will help balance the environmental, social, economic, and quality of life factors affecting our community and guide allocation of resources, such as land use and core infrastructure like roads, water supplies and parks.
Group Manager Planning and Environment Russell O’Leary says, “Community input is a key to the development of the District’s Spatial Plan, which will provide a blueprint for the region’s development over the next thirty years.”
SWDC released the Spatial Plan Discussion Document on 10 July. The document includes initial ideas for feedback, in preparation for developing a Draft Spatial Plan.
Mr O’Leary says, “We value and appreciate all feedback, ideas and comments on the discussion document. We want the Draft Spatial Plan we release later in the year to reflect what our residents want for the future of our district.”
The Draft Spatial Plan will be released for formal consultation later in the year. The consultation phase will include a series of community workshops, details of which will soon be on SWDC’s website.
Mr O’Leary says, “We’ve heard from many people that they’re excited about this opportunity, they’re interested in the process and they want what’s best for the district.
“We’re talking to Lions, Rotary and college students to encourage them to give feedback. We also plan to be out and about at events to reach other sections of the community. It’s really important that everyone knows how they can have their say and why spatial planning is important for future generations.”
The Discussion Document, feedback form and details of how to make a submission is available from Council offices, South Wairarapa libraries and online at swdc.govt.nz/spatial-plan. Any questions or comments can be emailed to spatial-planning@swdc.govt.nz.
ENDS
Media contact
Amy Wharram
027 252 2863
