Selwyn residents are being urged to make their voice heard on proposed plans for the district’s future, as the Selwyn District Council adopted it's draft Long-Term Plan (LTP) for public consultation.

The Council adopted the draft plan at an extraordinary meeting today, ready for public consultation to begin on Tuesday 2 April.

The draft LTP 2024-2034 sets out the Council’s proposed work programme, including key projects and services that would be delivered in the district over the next 10 years, how the programme would be paid for and its effect on rates.

The draft LTP has been informed by more than 800 people who shared their priorities for the district with Council last year.

Mayor Sam Broughton says the plan focuses on the key priorities identified by the community in growing a ‘Sustainable Selwyn’, that supports people to live here at all stages of life and preparing for growth, balanced against increasing costs to deliver Council services.

“This Long-Term Plan is about looking after what we have while continuing to think about the future and provide for growth.

“This has to be balanced with increasing costs that we, and councils across the country, are facing. Just maintaining existing infrastructure costs 30% more than three years ago.”

Residents are asked to have their say on three big decisions: proposed public transport infrastructure upgrades; how Council should proceed with the Waihora Whata Rau project to build Ellesmere’s new library, council service centre and community facility next to Leeston Park and upgrade the park; and whether a new recreation and sports centre at Darfield should be built to meet growing demand.

Other matters being consulted on include a proposal to close Sheffield Memorial Pool, increasing Council’s role in supporting economic development and exploring new digital solutions to improve customer experiences.

“We want to hear from all residents in our district and I invite you to look through the proposals and tell us what you think. This Long-Term Plan will impact our district’s future so we want to get the balance right,” Mayor Broughton says.

The draft plan proposes a rates increase of 15.6 per cent for the 2024/25 year, with an average increase over the next 10 years of 8.5 per cent.

Residents will be able to have their say on the draft LTP 2024-34 and completing the online submission form from 2 April – 2 May 2024.

More information, including a schedule of public information stands and drop-ins with Councillors and staff to answer questions will also be available online.

Last modified: 04 Apr 2024 3:49pm