7 December 2005

'Countryside in the city' concept for Churchill Park

Churchill Park, Glendowie is 44 hectares of 'countryside in the city' with a distinct farmland character. Auckland City has developed a draft landscape concept plan for the park, which will be taken to the public in the new year for their feedback.

The concept plan has been developed in line with the Churchill Park Management Plan, which guides the day-to-day management of the reserve and includes recommendations for future use and development of this park.

"Auckland City has a diverse range of parks and recreation reserves," says Councillor Penny Sefuiva, chairperson of the Arts, Culture and Recreation Committee. "Churchill Park offers a unique experience in the city and has been valued for its open pastoral land, grazing cattle, streams and gullies."

Key features of the draft concept plan include: * a new footpath network * development of entrances to the park for both pedestrian and vehicle access * seeking options for the future use of the Old Golf Clubhouse buildings and grounds * part of the park to be used for grazing cattle * development of a nikau and fern gully * native and exotic revegetation planting with an emphasis on encouraging wildlife, and * removal of damaged or high risk trees.

An earlier draft of the concept plan was presented to the Eastern Bays Community Board and to a public forum in November. Some comments have been included in the revised draft document and others will be considered following the formal consultation in the new year.

Members of the public will be given an opportunity to express their views and preferences for Churchill Park in the new year.

ENDS

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