Submissions an example of government in action

Recent hearings on Hibiscus & Bays Draft Local Board plan were an example of local government in action, with residents putting forward passionate arguments for everything from environmental issues to better health and youth services.

Hibiscus & Bays received 1197 submissions to its Local Board Plan – the second highest of the 21 boards. The majority – 83 percent – were submissions in favour of Penlink gathered by the Penlink Now team.

Around 40 people chose to speak to their submissions at the hearings on August 25 and 30.

Issues raised by several submitters included the proposed development of the land owned by Peninsula Golf Club, the need for additional floodlit fields for Hibiscus Coast Association Football Club, massive support for two hockey turfs at Metro Park East and indoor tennis facilities for Silverdale Tennis Club.

The potential of the Weiti River for rowing, which would require development of boat ramp access and a request for a Vision Plan and Structure Plan for Waiwera were also raised.

One disgruntled North Shore resident said that the draft plan is weighted too heavily towards the needs of the Hibiscus Coast, while the bulk of the population is in East Coast Bays, “so most of the expenditure should be allocated there”.

“The Bays are not here to fund projects that the old Rodney District Council were not able to implement,” the submitter said.

Penlink polarised opinion, with some submitters asking that the Local Board give consideration to alternative solutions. One resident described Penlink as having the potential to “exacerbate traffic congestion to the east of the Penlink-Whangaparaoa junction and damage the quality of life for those living in Weiti-Stillwater, long cherished as a quiet and semi-rural place”, while another described it as “the single most critical project for the future success and wellbeing of the Hibiscus Coast.”

The Stillwater Ratepayers & Residents requested that they be kept fully informed on any proposals to fund Penlink by a private consortium. Their submission also sought improvements to roading and other infrastructure and support for a walkway and cycleway along the Weiti River.

Environmental concerns included protection of the North West Wildlife Link, especially retention of the Archer’s Block as a reserve, access to Matakatia Scenic Reserve, improvements to public transport, including more cycle trails and walkways, and increased ferry and bus services.

Now that all the submissions have been heard, the board will consider them and decide whether to make any changes to the draft. The final plan should be released next month.