On Tuesday 13 December, Council resolved an amendment to the Long Term Plan (LTP) 2021-31. Several significant infrastructure projects will be delivered to support growth in the South Waikato for our communities’ current future needs.
The projects, branded Building BIG Empowering GROWTH lie in the three waters areas across the district.
Through its LTP and Annual Plans, Council has confirmed with our community that economic growth and resilience is a priority.
“Economic growth has gained momentum in recent years. Our community is starting to flourish as we benefit from economic opportunities,” said Mayor Petley. “If we choose not to invest at scale and at pace, there is a risk we will miss out on economic growth and employment opportunities for our people.”
Modelling work over the past years has enabled Council to identify the infrastructure improvement projects we need to deliver to take advantage of growth. Currently we are constrained in what we can offer businesses because we don’t have adequate supporting infrastructure.
“These projects will allow us to unlock land to prepare for housing and business growth throughout the district. We will prepare a change to the district plan so there can be residential, industrial and business development in Tokoroa, Putāruru, and Tīrau,” said Susan Law, Council’s Chief Executive.
The projects will be loan funded to minimise rate impact.
Council’s proposal was out for public consultation during October and November, with hearings in early December.
“We’re grabbing the future with both hands so that we can lead growth in the district,” said Mayor Petley.
ENDS
