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NEWS RELEASE
2 October 2007

One Plan submissions in

The submissions are in – all 466 of them – and now the real work begins.

The period for late submissions to the One Plan, an umbrella environment management plan from Horizons Regional Council, ended on Sunday, September 30.

Council staff are now collating all documents and anticipate being able to present a public summary in November.

This, in turn, is expected to attract further submissions. The intent is to stage hearings in mid-2008, says Helen Marr, Horizons’ senior policy analyst and One Plan project manager.

“The summary of submissions allows everybody to see what everyone else has said, and creates the opportunity to make any further submissions in support or in opposition.

“We are aiming to notify that in November and have a close-off before Christmas,” she says.

“Our intention is to stage hearings in the early half of next year, but of course that all depends on how long it takes us to go through all the issues.”

All seven local bodies within the Horizons’ region have shown interest in the One Plan.

In addition to each lodging individual submissions, the Region’s district councils – Horowhenua, Manawatu, Rangitikei, Ruapehu, Tararua and Wanganui - have presented a combined paper.

Palmerston North City Council, has lodged individually.

By far the bulk of submissions are from interest groups and individuals.

“We’ve had submissions from everyone from farmers, businesses, government departments, environmental groups, energy companies, city and country dwellers.”

The first period for submissions ended on August 31 but an extension was granted to those who had advised the need for more time.

Submissions were being lodged up to the very last minute, Ms Marr notes.

“A number of emails were received on Sunday and some submissions in writing were delivered to our offices in Palmerston North and Wanganui that day. In addition, Monday’s mail brought more documents.”

The immediate work would involve up to six staff.

“There is a lot for us to do, but the level of interest is very heartening and welcome. It shows that there is strong interest in the One Plan, and that people are keen to become involved in the consultative process.”

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