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The Selwyn community has had its say in record numbers on the Council’s plan for the coming year.

Consultation on the Selwyn District Council Annual Plan 2026/27 closed on Sunday (26 April) with 944 people making submissions – the highest level of engagement ever seen for an Annual Plan in Selwyn.

The Draft Annual Plan responds to strong post-election feedback on rates affordability while sharpening the Council’s focus on core services ahead of anticipated major government reforms.

The level of engagement was boosted by an extended six-week consultation period and

shows a plan that reflected the community’s concerns and gave people the opportunity to weigh up meaningful options, Mayor Lydia Gliddon says.

“It’s really encouraging to see so many people taking the time to have their say. We heard loud and clear through the last election that rates affordability matters, and this plan was designed to give people real choices about how we manage costs while still investing in the services our growing district needs.”

Almost 100 people have also asked to speak to councillors at public hearings being held, Thursday 14 and Friday 15 May and livestreamed on the Council’s YouTube channel.

The Council asked residents for feedback on three weighted average rates increases of 6.5, 5.4 and 4.9 per cent for 2026/27, all significantly lower than the 13.3 per cent increase previously forecast in the Long Tem Plan 2024-2034. To achieve this people were asked to give their feedback on options to increase user pays for fees and charges, looking at the timing or scaling back of some projects, reducing funding for certain events and community grants and operating costs.

Key investments proposed in the Draft Annual Plan 2026/27 include roading upgrades and maintenance to support growth and safety, continued progress in the Lincoln town centre, replacement of the Whitecliffs Bridge, and repair of the Leeston Medical Centre.

All submissions will be reviewed by Councillors ahead of a decision on the plan in late June.

“It’s important to be clear that nothing is locked in at this stage. We’re taking the time to work through all feedback, continue looking for savings, and make sure the final plan reflects what we’ve heard from our community,” says Mayor Gliddon.

Last modified: 01 May 2026 3:39pm