ARC seeks feedback on draft annual plan

The Auckland Regional Council is asking ratepayers for feedback on its draft annual plan for 2010/11.

“We have taken a prudent approach to developing the plan. In line with our policy of the last six years, we have kept the average rates increase to below 5 per cent. The draft plan has an average increase of 4.82 per cent,” said ARC Chairman Mike Lee.

“This is the last time the ARC will prepare an annual plan. The draft sets out intended activities and expenditure for the last four months of our tenure.

“The ARC will be dissolved on 31 October and the new Auckland Council will become the unitary authority for the region. The new council will inherit the ARC’s responsibilities and the final eight months of the draft plan.”

Mr Lee said the ARC and its predecessor, the Auckland Regional Authority, have a proud history of service to the Auckland region over 47 years.

“We have built an outstanding network of 26 regional parks that protect 170km of spectacular coastlines,” he said.

“Environmental management has been one of the ARC’s major achievements. We have helped clean up Manukau Harbour and improved the management of Auckland’s scenic Hauraki Gulf, while our conservation programmes have restored wildlife habitats, with populations of kiwi and kokako restored on Auckland’s mainland.

“The ARC has led an integrated approach to growth and development across the region. We have helped improve public transport, including building the successful Northern Busway, new rail stations and increased services – rail services have more than doubled in the past six years.

“Also, after years of lobbying, the ARC amongst others has secured the Government’s commitment to electrify Auckland’s rail network and buy new electric trains. These will arrive in 2013.

“Together with the Government, the ARC has bought Queens Wharf to open it to the public and build a cruise ship terminal for this growing industry. It will also be a stage for Rugby World Cup celebrations.

“We will formally open the wharf to the public on Anzac Day, Sunday 25 April.”

People can view the draft annual plan at www.arc.govt.nz/draftannualplan

Feedback can be given by email or post by 5pm on Friday 30 April.

Email: AP.Feedback@arc.govt.nz

Post: Draft Annual Plan, Auckland Regional Council, Private Bag 92-012, Auckland 1142.

ENDS

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