Watershed plan for the city, says Mayor Wallace

Lower Hutt Mayor Ray Wallace has described Hutt City Council’s Annual Plan, confirmed yesterday, as a “watershed” for the city.

“Like never before we’ve focused on growth and rejuvenation because we recognise that to move this city forward we need to do things differently.

“With more than 30 projects included in this year’s plan this is an exciting time for our city and I’m optimistic for the future.

“Most importantly we’ve been able to set this direction for the city while retaining our reputation of financial prudence by striking a balance between development and fiscal responsibility.

“Hutt City Council has a long history of being careful and considered when it comes to spending and we will continue to have one of the lowest average rates increases in the region at 2.6 per cent. Our debt levels also remain amongst the lowest in the Wellington region.

“I want to thank everyone who took the time to have their say during this year’s consultation. We heard from many people passionate about their city who presented with professionalism and a level of understanding about their community that was impressive.

“It’s now time to get to work on making this plan a reality and I urge all those who care about the future of Lower Hutt to work with us on making this happen.”

Key resolutions include:

+ The decision to progress Civic Centre Option 3F which retains and upgrades the heritage of the Town Hall while replacing the Horticultural Hall with a modern, flexible space for community, conference, event and exhibition use.

+ The inclusion of rates remissions for development in the CBD. And the extension of council’s economic development incentives for a further three years until 2017. Council offers remittance to qualifying applicants of development and reserves contribution fees, building consent fees and resource consent fees making it easier and cheaper for commercial and residential developments to take place in the city.

+ An additional $6 million for the Fraser Park Sportsville project which is set to become a nationally significant precinct for sport, recreation and other community activity.

+ A dedicated facility at Huia Pool for learning to swim, hydrotherapy and specialised aquatic programmes. Budget of $6 million during the next two years has been allocated.

+ Bringing forward the date of Hutt River Trail work on the Manor Park cycleway. Increased city-wide investment into cycling, and the creation of selected wheelchair friendly footpath routes.

+ Moving the date of the Whiorau Reserve development from 2019 forward to now take place in the next 12 months.

+ Funding during the next three years to transform Avalon Park into a regional destination with a premier playground and improved access.

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