27 August

Council approves draft Whitireia Park Management Plan with provisos

Porirua City Council voted last night to support the draft Whitireia Park Management Plan with some clarifications.

The Plan acknowledges that Titahi Golf Club is located on the Park and supports the Club's aspiration for an extension of this current leased area in order to facilitate the planning and construction of a 18 hole golf facility at the park.

"We'd like to see greater certainty around this in the plan to give specific recognition of golfing as a named recreational feature of the Park consistent with the park's original Management Plan and previous Council policy on the Park’s future development,” says Mayor Nick Leggett.

The Council would also like to see greater consideration given to the management of fire risk.
"GWRC may wish to consider the approach taken by PCC in managing fire risk through “green firebreaks” where private property borders the park.”

Overseas and local research has shown that a “green firebreak” of low-flammability native plants is just as effective at slowing fires while also enhancing the environment and security of private property.

Apart from these matters Mayor Leggett says the management plan is excellent and will enhance the ecology of the park and its significant heritage features.
"The new tracks proposed will further enhance the recreational offering for residents and visitors to Porirua, and complement those offered in the Porirua City reserve network."

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